Victor Wembanyama scores 26 points in his NBA Finals debut but shoots inefficiently as the San Antonio Spurs lose to the New York Knicks in Game 1. Multiple reports describe Wembanyama’s opening-game experience as eventful, including pregame religious blessings and a major reception from the crowd during player introductions. He participates actively during the presentation, pumps his fist to the fans, and appears energized throughout the early stages. On the court, he produces 26 points but struggles from the field, making baskets only after difficult shot attempts. The reporting notes that he misses a large share of his attempts, including several that do not fall cleanly, with some shots bouncing off the backboard. Despite his overall scoring output, the Knicks take control late enough to secure the win, with coverage characterizing Wembanyama as not overly concerned about the loss and the shooting troubles. The outcome leaves the Spurs trailing in the series after the first game.