The Game 1 loss in the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks doesn’t appear to have shaken Victor Wembanyama’s confidence in the slightest. After a difficult night in front of the home crowd, the San Antonio Spurs star displayed complete composure, convinced that the result is far from a warning sign for the rest of the series.

Many players – especially those experiencing this stage for the first time – might allow a disappointing start to affect them. Wembanyama has chosen a different approach: trust the work that has been done throughout the season and prepare for an immediate response in Game 2.

We’ve been down in a series before. Sure, not in the Finals, but I’m not dwelling on anything. I’m not worried at all

Victor Wembanyama

Spurs and Wembanyama struggle

The loss to New York came after a disappointing offensive performance from San Antonio, which managed only 95 points while shooting poorly from the field.

Wembanyama himself also endured one of his least efficient shooting nights. Despite finishing with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks, the Spurs’ franchise player acknowledged that he fell short of the standard he expects from himself.

I’ll find a way out of it. I played badly tonight, there’s not much else to say

Victor Wembanyama

According to Wembanyama, however, the issue had little to do with anything extraordinary the Knicks did or with some unsolvable tactical puzzle.

There’s nothing I need to figure out. I just need to be myself and do the right things. When we make the game harder on ourselves, this is what happens. That’s exactly why I’m not worried. We’ll be much better, and I’ll be much better

Victor Wembanyama

One thing already seems certain: despite the opening defeat, the Spurs’ confidence remains fully intact. And if there is one person who continues to believe firmly in San Antonio’s chances, it is Victor Wembanyama. After all, the series has only just begun, and momentum can shift very quickly.