As we strategy the all-star weekend in Indiana, Spurs’ rookie Victor Wembanyama delivered yet one more spectacular efficiency on Thursday night time. Scoring a team-high 26 factors on 10/21 taking pictures from the sector, Wembanyama’s stellar efficiency has elevated him into the 1,000-point membership, becoming a member of the ranks of different spectacular rookies. Over the previous 15 years, solely Zion Williamson, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, and Blake Griffin have achieved this milestone.
Victor Wembanyama simply reached 1,000 profession factors, in his forty ninth sport.
Final 5 gamers to attain 1,000+ factors by way of their first 50 video games:
Victor Wembanyama (this 12 months)Zion Williamson (2019-20)Luka Doncic (2018-19)Joel Embiid (2016-17)Blake Griffin (2010-11)
— Jordan Howenstine (@AirlessJordan) February 15, 2024
Coming into the NBA, there have been doubts in regards to the polish in Wemby’s offensive sport, and understandably so. His scoring effectivity within the first two months left a lot to be desired, however he has proven important enchancment since then.
Pop mentioned Vic has improved mechanics of being able to catch and shoot. Additionally in shot choice.
Pop: “He can get a shot any time he needs. That doesn’t imply it’s a great shot, however he’s studying about learn how to be balanced, the place his finest pictures are and learn how to be basically sound.”
— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) February 15, 2024
Throughout this era of progress, Wembanyama’s mechanics have notably improved, incomes him reward from Coach Popovic after his current standout efficiency. The 20-year-old is now making pictures that appeared difficult earlier within the season. A transparent evolution is obvious when evaluating the rookie’s taking pictures in his first ten video games to his present type.
Wembanyama’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the eye and pleasure of assorted NBA media members. Many share the keenness expressed by Kevin O’Connor through the earlier season.
Even Luka Doncic, famend for his elite scoring and playmaking talents, approached Wemby with warning on the quick break. Regardless of trying an alley-oop as far-off as potential from the Frenchman, it was nonetheless swatted away.
The query arises: ought to the rookie be included within the elite listing? Whereas the league boasts deep expertise, there’s a compelling case for Victor being among the many high 35 gamers.
high 35 gamers within the NBA:
1. Nikola Jokic 2. Giannis Antetokounmpo3. Luka Doncic 4. Joel Embiid 5. Stephen Curry6. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 7. Kawhi Leonard 8. Jayson Tatum 9. Kevin Durant 10. Devin Booker 11. Anthony Davis 12. LeBron James…
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 14, 2024
This sentiment shouldn’t be remoted, as evidenced by Kevin O’Connor’s concurrence.
Victor Wembanyama final two months:
21.8 points9.6 rebounds3.7 assists3.5 blocks1.1 steals
Solely 26.9 minutes. Per 36 stats:
29.2 / 12.9 / 4.9 / 4.6 / 1.4
Capturing:72% restricted area37.5% midrange37.6% from 381.3% free throws
Wemby is already a high 20 participant. pic.twitter.com/OtFDk50fJw
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) February 15, 2024
Kyrie Irving, acknowledged as probably the greatest finishers across the rim for his place and measurement, shared his expertise in dealing with Victor. Maneuvering across the 7’4” rookie proved to be a difficult artwork.
Victor Wembanyama simply reached 1,000 profession factors, in his forty ninth sport.
Final 5 gamers to attain 1,000+ factors by way of their first 50 video games:
Victor Wembanyama (this 12 months)Zion Williamson (2019-20)Luka Doncic (2018-19)Joel Embiid (2016-17)Blake Griffin (2010-11)
— Jordan Howenstine (@AirlessJordan) February 15, 2024
