Victor Wembanyama had 42 points and 18 rebounds in a memorable Christmas Day debut. But that could only get the San Antonio Spurs close before falling short, with the New York Knicks pulling out a 117-114 victory Wednesday.

The San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama nearly stole a Christmas Day victory at Madison Square Garden, but the New York Knicks were able to escape 117-114 in the final minutes. Wembanyama made his presence known early.

• Wembanyama became the third player to score 40-plus points in his Christmas debut, joining Wilt Chamberlain (45, 1959) and Tracy McGrady (43, 2000). • Wembanyama became the first player to amass 40-plus points, 15-plus rebounds, and five-plus 3-pointers on Christmas Day.