NBA Notes: Spurs, Victor Wembanyama, Knicks, Josh Hart, Thunder

Spurs

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama admitted emotions got the best of him after San Antonio defeated Oklahoma City in Game 7 to advance to the NBA Finals.

For Wembanyama, the opportunity goes beyond simply winning games.

“Winning the Larry O’Brien, it’s a childhood dream,” he said, via Anthony Slater of ESPN. “Having a real shot at it, having a chance, tangible chance at winning it, realizing a dream.”

The Western Conference finals MVP has become one of the league’s most dominant players at just 22 years old, but he said learning to harness emotions has been a major part of his development.

Whether it’s passion, anger or excitement, Wembanyama said he tries to channel every emotion into helping the Spurs win.

And now he’s four victories away from his ultimate goal.

Knicks

If there’s a common theme inside New York’s locker room, it’s sacrifice.

According to Jared Scwartz of the New York Post, every player and coach signed a “Standard of a Champion” contract emphasizing team success over individual accomplishments.

The approach has shown throughout the postseason.

Karl-Anthony Towns has adjusted his role offensively. Jordan Clarkson has embraced doing the little things. Mitchell Robinson has accepted whatever minutes are needed.

“Being unselfish, I think that’s the biggest thing,” Josh Hart said. “We’re willing to sacrifice numbers and stats for the betterment of the team.”

The formula has helped carry the Knicks to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.

Thunder

The Thunder fell one win short of returning to the NBA Finals, but MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had plenty of praise for the team that eliminated them.

“They’re young, they’re talented, well-coached,” Gilgeous-Alexander said of San Antonio. “They have the makeup, for sure.”

Gilgeous-Alexander was brilliant in Game 7, finishing with 35 points and nine assists, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Spurs.

As Oklahoma City enters another important offseason, Gilgeous-Alexander made it clear he plans to leave roster decisions to executive vice president Sam Presti.

“I will give zero input,” he said. “I will let Sam Presti, the greatest GM ever, do his job.”