Wemby dominates OKC and responds to Shaq’s criticism
Victor Wembanyama answered Shaquille O’Neal’s criticism on the floor, dominating Game 4 against the Thunder with a complete performance that reignited the series. Still, the French star stayed grounded after the win
Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs were the team with their backs against the wall heading into Game 4. Instead, behind a dominant performance from Wemby – 33 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals and 3 blocks – San Antonio completely overwhelmed the Thunder at home with a convincing 103-82 victory, evening the series at 2-2.
In the face of recent criticism from Shaquille O’Neal, Wembanyama raised his level even further and led a defensive effort that held OKC under 90 points.
I need Victor Wembanyama to do more. Game 1: 41 and 24, they won. Game 2: 21 and 26, that’s not enough. And I can say that as the supreme ruler of all big men. I remember averaging 34 or 35 and still getting swept, and my father – rest in peace – told me it wasn’t enough. You have to do more. So he has to do more
Shaquille O’Neal
Despite the masterful performance, the French star remained completely composed when speaking to reporters after the game:
We didn’t do anything unexpected. It was our first time trailing in a playoff series and we simply responded. No magic, just what needed to be done. This series is still very long – we still need six more wins before we can rest
Victor Wembanyama
That’s a remarkable mindset (further fueled by Gregg Popovich’s speech following the Game 3 loss) for such a young group experiencing its first real playoff run together.
And considering the emotional blow from the heavy 123-108 home loss in Game 3, it could have rattled almost any team. Instead, the Spurs leaned on their emotional leader. Wemby explained his approach this way:
We all have extremely high standards. I know I have a lot of responsibility and that’s why I’m here. Today was better, but it wasn’t perfect. I always have to find new ways to impact the game
Victor Wembanyama
And the impact was impossible to miss. A physical and technical statement performance that shattered Oklahoma City’s confidence before the series shifts back to OKC.
Now the momentum is entirely on San Antonio’s side, but Game 5 will require much more from the bench. Coaches and fans alike are waiting for meaningful contributions from Keldon Johnson, Dylan Harper, and Harrison Barnes if the Spurs want to pull off a major upset.