NBA Sends Warning to Victor Webanyama After Postgame Decision

The San Antonio Spurs dropped Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, 127-114, on Tuesday night and now trail 3-2 in the series.

In each game the Spurs have won in the series, Victor Wembanyama has clearly been the best player on the floor. In the other three losses, that has not been the case.

Wembanyama finished Tuesday's game with 20 points and six rebounds, but 12 of those points came from the free-throw line. He shot just 4-for-15 from the field and had only one rebound well into the third quarter.

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After the game, players are mandated to speak to the media regardless of the outcome, but Wembanyama ultimately decided not to comply with that rule. His decision was quickly noticed after he left with the San Antonio Spurs without stepping to the podium.

On Wednesday, ESPN insider Shams Charania reported that the NBA opted not to fine Wembanyama and instead issued him a warning for the incident, likely signaling that a punishment could follow if it happens again.

A report from The Athletic on Wembanyama's decision to skip his media obligations stated:

"Wembanyama surprised the media masses and walked right past them on the way to the team bus. He took a left at the PayCom Center hallway, walked a few hundred feet more, then veered off into the night while team officials and reporters alike were stunned by his choice not to fulfill the media duties that are mandated by the NBA."

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This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 11:59 AM.