5 days into the new season, we already have a Dillon Brooks incident! The announcer of today’s game called all of it “extracurricular activities”. Dillon the Villian, who is infamously known for his on-court antics and brawls, pulls off another ugly act. This time with the 2024 ROTY, Victor Wembanyama. The Rockets forward almost grabbed the 20-year-old in a choke hold for a brief moment until the Spurs‘ players barged in to separate them. Thanks to Chris Paul for landing an instant payback.

Three minutes into the third quarter, the Spurs had a comfortable 14-point lead over the Rockets. The French man, who was in his usual best, running the floor for his side, had an unusual match-up. Brooks, totally unmatched by Wemby’s height, guarded him for this particular play. The big man received a pass from the wing and tried to work his way up toward the bucket, but Brooks, in his attempt to grab the ball, locked up Wemby in an uncomfortable position and ended up wrapping his arm around the neck.

The Spurs teammates immediately rushed to separate the players. While Brooks didn’t seem like moving an inch, Chris Paul slyly landed a punch in his face to hold him back. It instantly left the Houston star riled up as he walked off, throwing hurls at CP3.

The ugly tussle immediately sent the play up for review, causing a brief pause in the game. While everyone expected the refs to eject Dillon Brooks and Chris Paul, they surprised everyone with no such call. Instead, the officials proceeded with a jump ball.

However, fans had much intense action later in the game when the Rockets chased down the Spurs’ lead and turned the game into a thrilling piece of action. But the San Antonio side held their nerve and produced a 109-106 win.

Despite the chokehold, Victor Wembanyama anchors Spurs’ first win

The 7 ‘4 big man, who has put on some muscles this off-season, has his agenda set right. Wembanyama anchored the Spurs’ offense, dropping 29 points with 7 rebounds squaring up with the Rockets’ Jalen Green for the game-high score. Nevertheless, it’s safe to say that Coach Pop and Co. haven’t lost anything in their gamble. In fact, they have found themselves treasure.

Moreover, Chris Paul’s addition was invaluable for the side, as the veteran guard racked up 3 points with 9 assists. In the last season, the Spurs produced similar close games but always fell short as they struggled to close the game appropriately. Tonight, CP3 made his presence felt in the final minute, as the hooper brought his experience into the game, running the show.

Anyway, Dillon Brooks’ antics turned into the highlight of the game. The Rockets star always had his ways to guard Wemby. Last season, speaking of his methods to guard the big man, he said, “He’s playing a little bit more physical, getting under him, limiting his roles to the rim. I don’t let him get a second chance, opportunities.” So, that’s what we witnessed this season as well, a locked-up defense near the rim. What do you make of the ugly play ending with both players on the floor? Let us know in the comments.