NBA broadcaster calls for Spurs star to change 'Alien' nickname: 'They deport those'

Wembanyama is known as "Alien" because of his 7-foot-3 lean frame combined with his abilities on the basketball court. The Spurs were taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Cup semifinals when Van Gundy and play-by-play man Michael Grady spoke about Wembanyama.

Grady said the "Alien" nickname agreed with Wembanyama. But Van Gundy was quick to call for a change.

"The only thing is, in the current political environment, you gotta watch that word, Michael Grady," Van Gundy said. "They deport those. We do not want Victor Wembanyama deported. Let's go with a different nickname."

Grady laughed it off.

San Antonio defeated Oklahoma City, 111-109. The Spurs handed the Thunder their second loss of the season.

Wembanyama, who only played 21 minutes as he returned to action from a calf strain, scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Devin Vassell led the team with 23 points. De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle also scored 22 points.

The Thunder fell to 24-2.