Wembanyama shines in his Christmas day debut with 42 points

Victor Wembanyama delivered an incredible performance in his first Christmas Day game, recording 42 points, 18 rebounds, six three-pointers, four blocked shots, and four assists. Despite his remarkable effort, the San Antonio Spurs narrowly lost to the New York Knicks, 117-114, at Madison Square Garden.

Wembanyama’s debut on Christmas was one of the greatest in NBA history. Only Wilt Chamberlain, with 45 points in 1959, and Tracy McGrady, with 43 points in 2000, have scored more in their first Christmas games. His 42 points also set a new benchmark for the Spurs, surpassing LaMarcus Aldridge’s 33 points in 2016. Additionally, he came close to matching the franchise’s Christmas rebound record of 19, held by Hall of Famer David Robinson from 1999.

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The game’s closing moments saw the Spurs falter despite Wembanyama’s dominance. In the final minute, San Antonio missed key opportunities to capitalize on two missed Knicks shots, as Josh Hart secured both offensive rebounds. This allowed New York to run out the clock and clinch the victory.