The NBA admitted it missed a foul on Victor Wembanyama during Game 3 of the NBA Finals after he shoved Jalen Brunson hard in the first quarter. The incident occurred as Brunson attempted to set a screen, sending him to the floor, though no call was made at the time. Monty McCutchen, the NBA's head of officiating, confirmed the league's review found a foul should have been called, but officials opted not to issue a retroactive flagrant foul.

Wembanyama went on to lead the Spurs with 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists in a 115-111 road win at Madison Square Garden — their first victory of the series after losing the first two games at home. Brunson also scored 32 points but committed five turnovers. The game marked the first NBA Finals contest held at MSG since 1999.

Knicks coach Mike Brown expressed frustration postgame, particularly over a lopsided free-throw disparity in the second half. The Spurs attempted 24 free throws compared to the Knicks' eight in the final 24 minutes. While the Knicks attempted 22 for the game and the Spurs 32 overall, the second-half gap proved difficult to overcome. Brunson acknowledged his team fouled frequently.

This incident adds to Wembanyama's postseason scrutiny. He was previously ejected for an elbow on Naz Reid during the series against the Timberwolves. Despite the league's admission, no further action will be taken, leaving the Spurs' win intact and the controversy part of the series' narrative.