Wembanyama-Brunson, no flagrant foul: NBA closes the case

The NBA has decided not to take further action regarding the incident involving Victor Wembanyama during Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks. Following its postgame review, the league determined that the shove delivered by the French big man to Jalen Brunson would not be upgraded to a flagrant foul.

The play occurred with 4:44 remaining in the first quarter. Brunson was attempting to set a screen near the free-throw line when Wembanyama turned and shoved him, sending the Knicks guard to the floor. Officials did not call a foul on the play, prompting immediate protests from the New York bench.

Despite NBA Vice President of Referee Development Monty McCutchen later acknowledging that a foul should have been called, the league chose not to elevate the contact to a flagrant foul.

Wembanyama avoids suspension

The decision is particularly significant for the French star. Wembanyama remains at two flagrant points accumulated during this postseason. Under NBA rules, a player receives an automatic suspension upon reaching four points.

The only points he has received so far came during the second-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, when he struck Naz Reid in the face with an elbow during Game 4. That play resulted in a Flagrant 2, an ejection, but no further disciplinary action.

Shaquille O’Neal and Cousins defend Wembanyama

The incident involving Brunson has divided fans and analysts alike. Among those publicly supporting Wembanyama was Shaquille O’Neal, who praised the Spurs center’s physical approach during the game’s halftime show.

That’s what you want to see from your big man. I like that play from Wemby

Shaquille O’Neal

The Hall of Fame center went even further, suggesting it was not a dirty play but rather a message sent to the opposition.

Former NBA center DeMarcus Cousins shared a similar opinion during an appearance on Run It Back.

If I had done that, they probably would’ve thrown me out, but I’m not mad at him. I agree with Shaq

DeMarcus Cousins

According to Cousins, smaller players are often given more leeway when initiating contact with big men, and Wembanyama’s play falls within the normal physical battles that define the NBA Playoffs.

Attention now shifts to Game 4, scheduled for tonight, with the Knicks looking to respond and the Spurs hoping to once again capitalize on the dominant impact of their French superstar.