“Not like I was trying to hurt anybody”: Victor Wembanyama reacts to $25,000 fine for Career-High ball toss

The NBA disclosed on Sunday that Victor Wembanyama, a rookie, was fined $25,000 for throwing the game ball into the stands in celebration after the San Antonio Spurs’ overtime victory against the New York Knicks.

During the post-game press conference following the end of their three-game winning streak against the Golden State Warriors, Wemby was questioned about the fine.

“I remember players being fined for this, but they always threw it in a bad way. I threw it to…please somebody. It’s not like I was trying to hurt anybody.”

The Spurs managed to keep pace with the New York Knicks (44-30) in overtime, resulting in a final score of 130-126.

Victor, caught up in the excitement and jubilation of securing their first three-game winning streak and upsetting the favored Knicks team, grabbed the game ball and hurled it into the already frenzied crowd as the shot clock expired.

The video is presented below:

Exploring the Rules Intent with Victor Wembanyama

The league typically imposes an automatic fine for behaviors such as throwing or kicking a ball into the stands.

Jeff McDonald, the Spurs’ beat writer and insider, discussed the rule’s failure to validate the intent of the action with Wembanyama, who responded:

“Apparently”

His remarks about not wanting to cause harm to anyone and instead desiring to amplify their happiness by involving the audience in the festivities accurately convey his feelings.

Victor Wembanyama dominates in historic performance against New York Knicks

During the match against the Knicks, Wembanyama delivered a standout performance, marking the best of his budding NBA career. In the Friday night game, he reached a personal record of 40 points, along with an impressive 20 rebounds, seven assists, and four successful 3-pointers.

One of his pivotal 3-pointers occurred in overtime with only 1:12 remaining, increasing San Antonio’s lead by four points. This crucial moment played a key role in driving the Spurs towards victory.

Despite having to face an incredible 61-point performance from Knicks All-Star guard Jalen Brunson, the Spurs’ victory was greatly aided by his contributions. Brunson’s impressive showing came close to breaking the New York franchise’s single-game scoring record, falling just one basket short.

At the young age of 20, the French newcomer became a part of the elite group of NBA icon and four-time NBA title holder Shaquille O’Neal, as one of the two players to accomplish a 40-20 game in their first year in the league.