NEW YORK (AP) — Victor Wembanyama’s difficult evening extended beyond the basketball court Wednesday night, as hostile New York fans bombarded the San Antonio player with jeers and launched an egg in his direction outside his hotel.
Online video footage captured the moment when someone hurled at least one egg toward the Spurs star as he walked into his lodging surrounded by security personnel after San Antonio’s fourth game defeat against the Knicks.
The identity of whoever threw the projectile remains unknown. The footage revealed heckling supporters crowding around the hotel, located several blocks from Madison Square Garden.
Moments after the egg smashed against a street sign, Wembanyama spun around to face someone near the hotel’s front door before proceeding inside.
San Antonio’s organization has not yet provided clarification regarding whether the thrown item actually hit Wembanyama when contacted for comment.
This incident occurred after San Antonio suffered a devastating playoff collapse, leaving them facing potential elimination following their surrender of a commanding 29-point advantage to New York. Wembanyama failed to convert two crucial free throw attempts during the closing moments.
New York’s triumph sparked wild celebrations throughout the city, with overjoyed supporters flooding the streets, launching fireworks, climbing light poles, and occasionally confronting law enforcement officers.
Police records show 56 individuals were arrested on various charges including assault and disorderly conduct, according to the New York Police Department.
“Once again, there were large crowds of people who engaged in incredibly reckless and dangerous behavior last night both during and after the game,” the police department said in a statement.
A department representative indicated no official report exists regarding the egg-throwing incident.
