Victor Wembanyama Leads Spurs to NBA Finals, Echoing Shaq’s Early Impact

The San Antonio Spurs, guided by 22-year-old French center-guard Victor Wembanyama, will meet the New York Knicks in the 2026 NBA Finals. Game 1 is set for June 3 at the Frost Bank Center; the series alternates venues through a possible Game 7 on June 19 in San Antonio.

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The Spurs’ Game 7 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder evoked the 1995 Orlando Magic run led by Shaquille O’Neal. Both were generational big men who propelled inexperienced squads to a conference final. O’Neal’s Magic lost that Finals; he later said he “should have six or seven” rings, underscoring expectations on dominant centers.

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Wembanyama emphasizes a disciplined routine, saying he is “immune to the distractions like partying, alcohol, drugs.” He added that “the lack of experience is a strength for us.” Knicks Karl-Anthony Towns called him “a special talent” and said the NBA is “blessed to have him.” An NBA head coach labeled him “Shaq,” while a Western Conference scout noted the Spurs’ draft luck.

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Wembanyama posted 25 points, 11.5 rebounds and 3.1 blocks while shooting 51 % and 84 % from the free-throw line (78 misses) and made 152 three-pointers, missing 65 games. O’Neal in 1994-95 averaged 29.3 points, 11.4 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, shot 58 % and 54 % on free throws (511 misses), made no threes, and missed four games early.

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Wembanyama’s mix of perimeter shooting, rim protection and mobility could reshape the center role. His avoidance of alcohol and preference for plant-based sports drinks contrast with earlier big-men habits. The Spurs are reportedly preparing a five-year, $300 million extension, signaling a long-term commitment to his skill set.

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In Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, Wembanyama chased a fast-break three-pointer, covering 28 feet in 1.5 seconds and leaping 14 feet to contest the shot. The attempt missed, but the play was noted for speed and athleticism, drawing comparisons to iconic playoff blocks.

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Official listings give Wembanyama a height of 7-ft-4 in, while some observers claim he may be 7-ft-6 in or 7-ft-7 in with shoes, leaving no definitive measurement.

There’s a Monster in the Woods

• “He's Shaq,” — Veteran NBA head coach

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• “I feel like I'm immune to the distractions like partying, alcohol, drugs,” — Victor Wembanyama

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• “The lack of experience is a strength for us,” — Victor Wembanyama

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• “Obviously, [Wembanyama] is a special talent, and the NBA is blessed to have him and for him to be able to showcase his talent to the world,” — Karl-Anthony Towns

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• “I'll be the first to complain about how lucky they got in the lottery,” — Western Conference scout

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The Spurs will host Games 1, 2, 5 and 7 (if necessary) at the Frost Bank Center; the Knicks will host Games 3, 4 and 6. A contract extension for Wembanyama is expected before the series ends.

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