Victor Wembanyama Furious After Scottie Barnes Game Winner

Defensive lapses prove costly as Team World falls short in 2026 All-Star Game showdown.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Victor Wembanyama's competitive nature was on full display during the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, as his Team World squad fell short against the USA Stars team in a close overtime loss. Wembanyama's visible frustration stemmed from defensive breakdowns that allowed Scottie Barnes to hit the game-winning three-pointer in the final seconds, despite Barnes' modest shooting percentage from deep this season.

Why it matters

Wembanyama's fierce competitiveness signals the San Antonio Spurs' ambition to contend seriously in upcoming seasons, as the young star's intensity and skill remain central to the team's rebuilding efforts. The loss highlighted defensive lapses that Wembanyama and the Spurs will look to address moving forward.

The details

The match against the USA Stars ended 37-35 in overtime, with Barnes delivering the game-winning three during the extra period. Wembanyama's visible frustration was linked to how the shot was allowed, as Team Stars exploited defensive lapses by Karl-Anthony Towns and Deni Avdija on Jalen Duren's roll, leaving Barnes open despite his modest season shooting percentage from beyond the arc.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Game took place on Sunday night.
  • The match against the USA Stars ended 37-35 in overtime.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

A star player for the San Antonio Spurs who is known for his competitive nature and is central to the team's rebuilding efforts.

Scottie Barnes

A player for the USA Stars team who hit the game-winning three-pointer in the final seconds of the overtime period.

Karl-Anthony Towns

A player for Team World who was involved in the defensive lapses that led to Scottie Barnes' game-winning shot.

Deni Avdija

A player for Team World who was also involved in the defensive lapses that led to Scottie Barnes' game-winning shot.

Jalen Duren

A player for the USA Stars team whose roll play created the defensive breakdown that left Scottie Barnes open for the game-winning shot.

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What’s next

The Spurs will look to address the defensive lapses highlighted in the All-Star Game as they aim to progress beyond their current stature and contend seriously in upcoming seasons.

The takeaway

Victor Wembanyama's intense competitiveness and skill remain central to the San Antonio Spurs' rebuilding efforts, as they look to build a contending team around the young star's talent and drive.