PARIS — The recent discussions in Paris surrounding San Antonio’s standout player, Victor Wembanyama, reveal a surge of excitement about his potential. Hall of Fame point guard Tony Parker succinctly captured the sentiment: he believes Wembanyama has the ability to achieve greatness. Parker, who contributed to four of the Spurs’ five championship victories, confidently stated, “He can be whatever he wants. He can be the best player in the NBA.”
Parker’s belief is backed by more than just Wembanyama’s impressive stats — which currently stand at 24.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.9 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game. Historical comparisons elevate the context, as only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar matched these numbers in a season over half a century ago. Adding the modern element of 3-point shooting makes Wembanyama’s performance truly extraordinary, as he just celebrated his 21st birthday while shattering records in basketball history.
What’s particularly noteworthy for Spurs fans is Wembanyama’s self-drive; he maintains a critical view of his own game and is committed to continuous improvement. “I’m not there yet,” he remarked, emphasizing his ongoing efforts to enhance his skills. While observations about his slender physique raised concerns about his ability to contend with more robust defenders, Wembanyama has shown significant physical development, gaining 26 pounds and now weighing 235 pounds, which has allowed him to thrive on the court instead of being overwhelmed by opponents.
As a highly anticipated talent, Wembanyama arrived with expectations akin to those placed on LeBron James, and he is undeniably on the path to becoming an NBA All-Star, with selection anticipated soon. He is also a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year and is likely to receive MVP votes, all in just his second season.
“We see something new every day that he’s building,” said Spurs CEO R.C. Buford, who has observed Wembanyama since he was a teenager. “It’s fascinating how committed he is to evolving as a player. It’s become apparent that we witness his growth firsthand on a daily basis.”
Wembanyama is increasingly showcasing his versatility on the court. From executing steals with finesse to executing crossovers and landing long-range shots, he possesses a remarkable skill set. Also recognized as the best shot-blocker in the league, his ability to maneuver various styles — including spin moves and swift pivots — makes him a formidable offensive threat.
This season, the Spurs brought in veteran Chris Paul, a celebrated point guard playing his 20th NBA season, to provide guidance to Wembanyama. Their mutual willingness to engage in dialogue regarding both basketball strategies and personal development has fostered a dynamic partnership. Intriguingly, Paul is learning from Wembanyama too; traditionally, it would be Paul directing plays as the point guard, but now he finds himself adapting to set screens for his towering teammate.
“Vic is incredibly unique,” Paul shared, noting the depth of Wembanyama’s skills beyond mere height. “He can dribble, pass, and shoot — he’s got a bit of everything, which makes it exciting to play alongside him.”
Moreover, as a player who ranks high in NBA history for steals, Paul has been influenced by Wembanyama’s defensive awareness. Paul continues to adapt his approach, recognizing how vital Wembanyama’s presence is in terms of coverage on the floor.
Currently, the Spurs find themselves at a crossroads, holding a record of 20-23 following a split against Indiana in Paris. While they are not positioned among the playoff teams in the Western Conference, the possibility of participating in the play-in tournament remains viable. This signifies a notable improvement compared to recent seasons, and Buford reflects on their fortunate acquisition of Wembanyama.
Wembanyama, who has lived in the spotlight since childhood, is focused on his goals and remains grounded about his journey. The Spurs’ strategy shifted significantly in 2019 when Buford began scouting with a different objective — leading to Wembanyama’s attraction and selection. The impact of having such a talented player has reshaped the franchise’s future.
As the Spurs look to improve their playoff chances, Wembanyama’s emergence in just his second season hints at a promising trajectory for both him and the team. Recognized as possessing remarkable maturity along with his multifaceted skills, he stands out as a remarkable four-level scorer, and his defensive prowess only amplifies the anticipation surrounding his burgeoning career.
