Victor Wembanyama is regarded as one of the most promising players in the game because of his enormous 7-foot-4-inch frame, incredible skills, and versatility on the court. Frenchman Wembanyama’s amazing shot-blocking skills, tenacity on the glass, and offensive grace have made him comparable to basketball greats.
He is a shining example of the upcoming generation of basketball stars and is sure to make a lasting impact on the game. The enormous amount of anticipation surrounding the young French talent prior to the 2023 NBA Draft was only eclipsed by the commotion surrounding rookie LeBron James in 2003. The San Antonio Spurs HC is happy to be Wemby’s coach.
Gregg Popovich lauds Wembanyama’s global perspective
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich has gladly taken up the task of mentoring Victor Wembanyama, who has been widely touted as the greatest NBA prospect in recent times. The hype around Wembanyama is unreal. As a result, many had expressed their concerns about the 19-year-old being subjected to so much scrutiny and pressure early on in his career.
Popovich allayed people’s fears, though, by highlighting Wemby’s skill at handling the attention and strain of expectations. In the three games he has played so far this 2023–24 season, the French international has averaged 15.7 points and 7.3 rebounds. Wembanyama’s European ancestry, according to Pop, helps him tune out the outside world and concentrate on his work.
A preview of the Phoenix Suns vs. San Antonio Spurs game featured quotes from Gregg Popovich, which were recently highlighted in an NBA.com article where Pop discussed how Wemby handles all the chaos like a normal European. Pop said, “A lot of these places (in the U.S.) are new to him [Wembanyama] but he’s a very inquisitive young man. He’s from Europe. They’re a lot more cultured than we are. They’re more civil than we are. They travel, speak languages.” Pop has faith in Wembanyama and knows that he is smart enough to handle the pressure.
“It’s not like he’s a dumbstruck young kid. He’s pretty worldly. This hype has gone on for a very long time. It’s old hat for him. He doesn’t even notice it,” the 74-year-old added.
The Spurs head coach is giving Wemby some tough love in spite of his talent and wisdom in order to get him ready for the fights ahead. Wembanyama has been very open to following Pop’s instructions because he understands that’s the fastest route to success in the NBA.
Spurs secure first NBA victory with Victor Wembanyama vs Rockets
During the first week of the NBA season, Victor Wembanyama has been the centre of attention. On Friday, the 19-year-old rookie did not let anyone down as the San Antonio Spurs overcame a late deficit to defeat the Houston Rockets 126-122 in overtime.
With only 20 seconds remaining in regulation and his team trailing by two, the Frenchman finished with 21 points, 12 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals at the Frost Bank Centre.
Wemby also made the game-tying basket. He is the second Spurs player to record 20 points or more and 10 rebounds or more in his first two career games, according to ESPN’s Stats and Information.
What are your thoughts on Victor Wembanyama’s first few games in the NBA? Is he living up to your expectations? Share with us below.
