Skip Bayless Shifts Criticism from LeBron James to Victor Wembanyama

After nearly two decades of targeting LeBron James with sharp critiques, sports commentator Skip Bayless has now set his sights on Victor Wembanyama, the center for the San Antonio Spurs. This shift comes as Wembanyama faces the possibility of his first loss in the NBA Finals, following a stunning Game 4 where the Spurs squandered a 29-point lead, resulting in a narrow 107-106 defeat to the New York Knicks.

Bayless expressed his disbelief over the Spurs’ historic collapse, which he compared unfavorably to previous high-stakes moments in NBA history. “It’s already becoming clear the New Face (Wemby) has this in common with the Old Face (LeBron) … no clutch gene. Late missed game-winners, missed crucial free throws, killer turnovers. Disappeared in last night’s second half: 0 blocks, 0 defensive rebounds. 1-9 career late/close,” he posted on X.

He also referenced a well-known moment from the 2013 NBA Finals, stating, “To me, last night’s Spurs collapse wasn’t quite as painful (or fatal) as the far more condensed collapse late in 2013’s Game 6. Up 5 with 20 seconds left! Heat fans fleeing the arena! Spurs had won another championship! RAY ALLEN,” highlighting the stakes involved in crucial playoff moments.

Wembanyama's performance has drawn scrutiny, especially after pivotal mistakes in both Games 2 and 4, where his actions directly contributed to missed opportunities. In Game 2, he committed a turnover and fouled Jalen Brunson with the game tied, and in Game 4, he failed to convert two free throws that could have extended their lead.

This year's NBA Finals serve as a critical learning phase for Wembanyama and the Spurs, who still have much to refine in their closing strategies. As Wembanyama noted in his postgame comments, the team needs to maintain their momentum when they gain a significant lead. Bayless suggests that the young star could benefit from studying LeBron’s early career experiences to unlock his full potential.