Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns Shuts Down Wembanyama in Win

Towns' defensive effort proves key as Knicks end Spurs' 11-game winning streak

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In a highly anticipated matchup between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns stepped up on the defensive end to limit the impact of Spurs star Victor Wembanyama. Despite scoring only 12 points himself, Towns played a crucial role in the Knicks' 114-89 victory, holding Wembanyama to 25 points on 8-of-17 shooting and forcing him into a game-high 7 turnovers.

Why it matters

The defensive performance by Towns against the highly touted Wembanyama showcased his ability to adapt his game and make an impact on that end of the floor, which has been a criticism of him in the past. This win also snapped the Spurs' 11-game winning streak and demonstrated the Knicks' ability to compete with the league's elite teams.

The details

The Knicks' strategy of assigning Towns to guard Wembanyama proved effective, as the Spurs shot only 26% from three-point range, including 2-for-14 (14%) when Wembanyama was guarded by Towns. Wembanyama's -15 plus-minus was his second-worst of the season. In addition to Towns' defensive efforts, Mohamed Diawara and Mitchell Robinson also contributed solid performances at the center position for the Knicks.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 2, 2026 at Madison Square Garden.

The players

Karl-Anthony Towns

A 30-year-old center for the New York Knicks who is known for his offensive prowess but showcased his defensive abilities in this game against the Spurs.

Victor Wembanyama

A highly touted 21-year-old center for the San Antonio Spurs who was held in check by Towns' defensive efforts.

Mohamed Diawara

A Knicks center who contributed 9 points, rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in the win.

Mitchell Robinson

A Knicks center who combined with Diawara to provide solid production at the pivot position.

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What’s next

The Knicks will face the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.

The takeaway

Karl-Anthony Towns' defensive performance against Victor Wembanyama demonstrated his ability to adapt his game and make an impact on that end of the floor, which has been a criticism of him in the past. This win over the Spurs showcased the Knicks' ability to compete with the league's elite teams and snapped the Spurs' 11-game winning streak.