Victor Wembanyama comes good in NBA Finals as New York Knicks pegged back in front of Trump

Victor Wembanyama delivered a commanding performance as the San Antonio Spurs halved the New York Knicks’ series lead in the NBA Finals, doing so with US president Donald Trump watching on.

>The 115-111 result abruptly halted the Knicks’ impressive 13-game winning streak and denied them the chance to move within a game of their first championship since 1973.

>Wembanyama, the seven-foot-four sensation, was instrumental for the Spurs, tallying 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, as he fuelled San Antonio’s ambition to achieve a historic NBA Finals comeback, a feat never before accomplished.

>Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praised his star player, stating: "I’m sure Victor has numerous sources of motivation. I don’t think any of us are surprised or expect anything different than a strong performance."

>The defeat marked the Knicks’ first loss in 46 days, snapping a remarkable run that included sweeping Philadelphia and Cleveland, and winning the opening two games against the Spurs.

>This dominant streak had ignited a frenzy across New York, with fans paying exorbitant sums for tickets and "Knicks In Four" becoming a ubiquitous greeting.

>However, Wembanyama and the Spurs ended the euphoria, spoiling the Knicks' first home NBA Finals game since 1999.

>Fans who endured long lines to get in with the extra security measures in place - with some who paid five-figure sums to be there - were treated to a back-and-forth game on the landmark occasion, but made sure to make their feelings of the attendance of Trump known by booing him loudly during the national anthem.

Donald Trump was in attendance as the Knicks were pegged back in the NBA Finals (Getty)Reflecting on the atmosphere, Wembanyama noted the difference between home and away games: "At home, it really feels like playing six against five. Here, it feels like five against six. It really shows what teams are made of."

>Knicks coach Mike Brown, meanwhile, voiced concerns over the officiating, highlighting the Spurs’ 24-8 advantage in free throw attempts during the second half. Despite the setback,

>Brown remained resolute: "I tell the guys, it’s a seven-game series for a reason. They are a great team. They are well-coached. They have an iconic player. It’s not going to be easy."

>Stephon Castle, who contributed 23 points, and De'Aaron Fox made crucial shots late in the game, ensuring the Spurs avoided a 3-0 deficit, a hole from which no NBA team has ever recovered.

>San Antonio now have the opportunity to level the series on Wednesday night, with Game Five guaranteed for Saturday.