The Oklahoma City Thunder fans recently directed their feelings towards San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama during Game 5. As Wembanyama approached the free-throw line, the crowd at Paycom Center chanted “flopper.” This reaction mirrored similar chants directed at Thunder player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander earlier in the series.
Chants and Reactions
In Game 3, fans from San Antonio expressed their opinions of Gilgeous-Alexander’s free-throw drawing techniques with a prolonged chant of “flopper.” Following the game, Gilgeous-Alexander addressed the chants, stating they didn’t affect him. “I expect that from the opposing team,” he commented. He indicated that such reactions are part of the sport and contribute to the excitement of the game.
Player Performance and Free-Throw Statistics
Gilgeous-Alexander has consistently excelled in drawing fouls, averaging 9.0 free-throw attempts per game throughout the regular season. His ability to obtain fouls is noteworthy, though he is not alone in this tactic. Wembanyama has also performed well at the line, averaging 7.0 free-throw attempts per game.
- Regular Season Free-Throw Averages:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 9.0 attempts per game
- Victor Wembanyama: 7.0 attempts per game
- Playoff Free-Throw Averages:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 9.8 attempts per game
- Victor Wembanyama: 6.6 attempts per game
While some may question the validity of exaggerated movements to earn fouls, it remains a common strategy in the league. Both Wembanyama and Gilgeous-Alexander have demonstrated the skill to capitalize on this aspect of the game effectively.
