Earlier than setting foot on the NBA courtroom, considerations concerning rookie Victor Wembanyama’s sturdiness loomed. Many anticipated that the San Antonio Spurs, famend pioneers in strategically resting key gamers, would train utmost warning with their 7’4” prodigy. Nevertheless, as we discover ourselves 66 video games deep into the season, Vic has missed simply eight video games, defying expectations. On Thursday, ESPN reporter Andrew Lopez wrote an insightful article illustrating how Wembanyama broke via the rookie wall in his debut season.
Navigating the NBA season is undoubtedly a rollercoaster trip, crammed with peaks and valleys. But, practically each time it appeared like Wemby may succumb to the notorious rookie wall, he bounced again, showcasing performances not often witnessed earlier than. Lopez captures one defining second main as much as the Spurs’ showdown in opposition to the Toronto Raptors, the place Wembanyama notched a historic triple-double with blocks. Then, simply three days later:
Lopes chronicles different pivotal moments from the rookie’s wall-vaulting season, together with the sport the place the Spurs restricted the high-flying Indiana Pacers to only 104 factors. Total, it paints a vivid image of Wemby’s journey, whereas additionally underscoring his relentless drive to push the workforce additional. Whereas the rookie’s ambition to wrap up the season with 22 wins could seem lofty, his want to play each remaining sport speaks volumes about his willpower and dedication to his craft.
Coach Popovic’s latest quote on Thursday concerning the rookie speaks volumes.
Pop, talking at a presser in Austin this afternoon, about Wemby’s maturity, humility, and so forth.:
“He isn’t a fan of himself, so to talk. The celeb half that he is already garnered, does not actually have an effect on him. He wins with class and he loses with grace.”
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) March 14, 2024
I can’t assist however agree with this take; Victor is already displaying his distinctive expertise making himself a top-20 participant.
“Victor Wembanyama might be a top-20 participant within the NBA proper now… Chet Holmgren is an excellent participant, and I do know there was this comparability amongst these two… I feel there’s a niche.”
Do you agree with Draymond Inexperienced?
(through @TheVolumeSports)pic.twitter.com/BfFPc4P7wX
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 14, 2024
In one other candid second, the rookie reveals his aggressive edge as soon as extra. His assertion that Rudy Gobert might win the award this 12 months out of pettiness is a daring assertion.
“I do know that Rudy (Gobert) has an excellent likelihood of profitable it this 12 months, and it could be deserved. Let him win it now, as a result of after that it is not his flip.” – Victor Wembanyama pic.twitter.com/PhhU5oudpO
— Spurs Tradition (@SpursCulture) March 14, 2024
Lastly, make sure to catch the most recent episode of the Ryen Russillo Present, that includes a dialogue about Wembanyama with former Spur and colour commentator Sean Eliotte. Moreover, Ryen dives into Wemby’s on-court impression with Mark Silver from Synergy Sport!
New Pod
MIA and Bam have been nice… however nonetheless not sufficient vs. DENWhere is Paolo amongst #1 picks final 10yrs?@seanelliott_32 On Wemby/DPOY/PopDuncan
Mark Silver @SynergySSTThe finest useful resource in basketballThe subsequent step in NBA scouting
Life Recommendation
At present’s episode:…
— Russillo (@ryenarussillo) March 14, 2024
