San Antonio Spurs: 3 reasons Victor Wembanyama is in the perfect spot to succeed
Three reasons why Victor Wembanyama is set up for success with the San Antonio Spurs.
It’s only the pre-season but Victor Wembanyama has already put the NBA on notice. That’s good news for the San Antonio Spurs.
The 19-year-old Frenchman looks even better than advertised early on. In his first NBA pre-season action “Wemby” had 20 points, five rebounds, and a block in just 19 minutes. That was against another rookie phenom, the 7-footer Chet Holmgren and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Wembanyama followed that up with an even better performance against the defending Eastern Conference Champion Miami Heat on TNT. A national TV audience saw “Wemby” impress on both ends of the court. He had 23 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks in just 23 minutes of a 120-104 Spurs home win.
The buzz surrounding the Spurs rookie sensation has grown after each game. Wembanyama has put up great numbers, but it’s HOW he’s getting them is what has been even more impressive.
The 7 foot, 3 1/2 inch tall Wembanyama has showcased a versatile skillset and remarkable agility. He has also shown how he can excel defensively with his shot-blocking. That’s expected with his height and nearly 8-foot wingspan. His offensive repertoire is what has caught the attention of most so far.
Wembanyama possesses a remarkable shooting touch for a man of his size. The Spurs even run “Wemby” off screens to create open shots for him from the arc! He can also take defenders off the dribble to create driving opportunities – or utilize his effective step-back jumper.
Did I mention that he’s 7-3? And a half? May I also remind you that he’s just 19 years old?
If NBA coaches thought trying to gameplan for Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo (both 6-11) was tough, imagine scheming to defend Wembanyama.
Good luck.
Victor Wembanyama will be the NBA’s next big superstar if healthy. He also has an opportunity to eventually make an impact like that of two San Antonio Spurs legends, perhaps even bigger. The good news for “Wemby” is he’s with an organization that is prepared to set him up for success.