SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The national anthem stance of Victor Wembanyama has continued to attract attention as the NBA Finals progress. Before Game 5 on Saturday night at Frost Bank Center, Wembanyama stood with his arms crossed during "The Star-Spangled Banner," similar to his actions before Game 1.
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson was asked if the team had discussed the anthem situation with Wembanyama and whether he would be present on the court during the anthem. Johnson responded, "Not at all. I think there are plenty of players that are not on the floor during the anthem. I don’t know if that’s habit, superstition, bathroom, whatever it may be. I don’t foresee anything looking into that at all."
This marks the Spurs' first public comment regarding Wembanyama’s actions during the anthem, which have become a topic of discussion since Game 1 when he was seen with his arms crossed. The image circulated on social media, eliciting mixed reactions from fans.
Wembanyama was also absent from the court during the anthem coverage for Games 3 and 4 at Madison Square Garden, while other Spurs players were visible. Johnson did not deny that Wembanyama chose to remain off the court during those anthems.
ESPN's broadcasts showed Wembanyama during the anthem before Games 1 and 2, but he was not featured in the same way for Games 3 and 4. For Game 5, ESPN reverted to its usual anthem presentation, showing Wembanyama on the court with his arms crossed.
The Spurs entered Game 5 trailing the Knicks 3-1 in the NBA Finals, needing a victory to extend their season. The ongoing discussion surrounding Wembanyama's stance during the anthem continues to be a focal point in the series.