San Antonio suffered another heartbreak as the Spurs lost 105-104 to the New York Knicks in Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
However, the spotlight has shifted away from the court. Former NFL defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko has called out Victor Wembanyama in part due to his behavior during the national anthem.
Why Breiden Fehoko Criticized Victor Wembanyama After Spurs’ Game 2 Loss
Fehoko took to social media to heavily criticize the French phenom, combining a critique of his play with an intense reprimand of his pregame conduct.
“Aye Wemby. You are 7’5 how are you this big and soft?” Fehoko posted on his X handle. “Next time have some respect for the National Anthem you big piece of French baguette.”
Aye Wemby. You are 7’5 how are you this big and soft? Next time have some respect for the National Anthem you big piece of French baguette.
— Breiden Fehoko (@BreidenFehoko) June 6, 2026
The ex-NFL player’s blistering comments stem from a pregame moment captured on the broadcast. Ahead of Game 2, Wembanyama could be seen with his head bowed and eyes closed, seemingly praying during the performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Victor Wembanyama praying during the National Anthem before Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
(h/t @SMHighlights1) pic.twitter.com/VI1rrOOsSa
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 6, 2026
This comes after Wembanyama was criticized for crossing his arms throughout the national anthem prior to Game 1. It’s worth noting that the Spurs star hasn’t indicated that this is a protest of any sort, but that hasn’t stopped pundits and fans like Fehoko from reading into his gestures.
As for the “soft” label, this comes after Wembanyama struggled throughout Game 2 of the Finals, which the Spurs ultimately lost by one point. The Spurs fought back valiantly and Wembanyama finished with 29 points, 9 rebounds, 4 blocks, 2 assists, and 2 steals. He seemed out of rhythm in the first half, but erupted for 22 points in the second half. However, he had some costly errors late that ultimately cost San Antonio the game, including late turnover and subsequent foul.
Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns was the standout performer for the Knicks, contributing 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting along with 13 rebounds.
Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson also had a good night as each racked up 20 points. While Brunson missed a lot of shots, he hit some big ones and also chipped in 5 steals and 6 assists.
Dropping the first two games at home to a relentless Knicks squad has put immense pressure on the Spurs. The Knicks have now won 13 consecutive playoff games, including eight consecutive contests on the road. They have stolen homecourt advantage away from San Antonio and now have a chance to win the series in New York as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden for Games 3 and 4.
President Donald Trump will be in attendance for Game 3 of the NBA Finals, so don’t be surprised if Wembanyama is under intense scrutiny during the national anthem. Game 3 will tip off on Monday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
