Tracking the San Antonio Spurs rookie in his debut season – Life Changer

Tracking the San Antonio Spurs rookie in his debut season

[ad_1]

Victor Wembanyama has been hailed as the most-hyped NBA prospect since LeBron James. Now, he is set to make his NBA debut in the regular season.

The 19-year-old point-forward plays like no one else in the world with his staggering size (7-foot-4) and frame (nearly 8-foot wingspan). To see him take players off the dribble and step into 3-pointers from Stephen Curry range defies everything you would ever expect from a young player with his size. He’s most noticeable on the defensive end as a rim protector and effectively guarding wings off the pick-and-roll switch.

Wembanyama grew up in Le Chesnay, France, a suburb 15 miles outside of Paris. His mom, Elodie de Fautereau, played basketball at a high level and his father, Felix, was a professional high jumper and ran track. His older sister, Eve, also played basketball and won a gold medal with France at the 2017 U16 European Championship. As a child, Wembanyama played soccer and was an elite goalkeeper before giving it up to focus solely on basketball.

At just 14 years old, Wembanyama helped France’s JSF Nanterre U18 team become the French League runner-up, despite being three years younger than most of the players. Around this time, Wembanyama started to get noticed by other scouts around Europe. He was a lanky center who wasn’t afraid to shoot deep 3s, attack the lane off the perimeter and played the game differently than anyone else. It was clear early on he was going to be a special player with his size and skill set. Despite pushes to move to Barcelona, a bigger basketball city, Wembanyama opted to stay in France and continue his development, eventually playing for ASVEL Villeurbanne in the EuroLeague and the U19 French national team.

Every NBA scout was tuned in during the summer of 2021 to watch 7-foot Chet Holmgren, that year’s No. 2 overall pick, go head-to-head with Wembanyama in the FIBA U19 World Cup gold-medal game. Holmgren is known as an elite rim protector, but it was Wembanyama (a year younger than everyone on the court) who was incredible, recording eight blocks and adding 22 points in an MVP-caliber performance. Team USA barely edged France, 83-81, with Holmgren winning MVP honors and finishing with 10 points and five assists in 23 minutes. During the course of the tournament, Wembanyama set a FIBA World Cup record for blocked shots with 40, averaging 5.7 per game. Holmgren recorded only 19 blocks in the tournament.

France’s Victor Wembanyama during the FIBA World Cup qualifiers on Nov. 11, 2022. (Photo by PETRAS MALUKAS/AFP via Getty Images)

“Never have I ever seen Chet Holmgren overshadowed physically like he was last year whenever the two met,” an NBA scout told Yahoo Sports. “He practically can and does do all that Chet can, but is three inches taller, probably shoots it better from 3, may have a better feel as a passer and has a much better frame to develop than Chet.”

Wembanyama likely would have been the No. 1 overall pick in 2022 — and in most NBA draft classes. He’s the best young prospect in the world and is now the building block around which the San Antonio Spurs hope to chase another NBA championship.

— Krysten Peek, NBA Draft analyst

Victor Wembanyama is here with the NBA hype and comparisons growing by the day

Nobody does hype better than the NBA, utilizing every avenue to promote its current and future stars.

Oftentimes, the trailer makes the movie look better than it is. There’s been too many cases to count, too many laughable instances of players not being worth the paper their posters were plastered over NBA-sanctioned canvases.

But in the case of Victor Wembanyama, no amount of preparation could ready the basketball world for the journey it is about to embark on.

It starts Wednesday night against Dallas, in a friendly atmosphere to be sure but the anticipation is from all directions.

The buttoned-up Spurs couldn’t hide Wembanyama even if they tried to, and it won’t be long before he truly takes center stage — if he hasn’t done so already.

Some 15 scouts made their way to check out the phenom’s last preseason game, under the “guise” of checking out who the Spurs could be cutting to get under their roster limit.

Yeah, right.

Even team officials who haven’t seen him play in person wanted to make the official pilgrimage, because as real as Summer League can be relative to watching him on film, it’s nothing compared to even preseason ball.

And that’s nothing compared to Game 1 of 82, the first in what’s sure to be a traveling circus.

Because Wembanyama might very well exceed the hype, an almost impossible task.

🔗 Read more from Vincent Goodwill on Wembanyama’s expectations.

NBA rookie watch: Victor Wembanyama vs. Chet Holmgren

If the NBA preseason is any indication of what the regular season holds for this rookie class, this might be the most impactful first-year group of players to hit the league in recent memory.

Victor Wembanyama is the early favorite for the top rookie honor, but Chet Holmgren made his presence known when the pair went head-to-head for the first time on Oct. 9. The duo put on a show with Holmgren and the Thunder getting the win, 122-121. Wembanyama finished with 20 points, five rebounds and two steals in only 19 minutes while Holmgren posted 21 points and nine rebounds in 16 minutes. It’s clear this is a budding rivalry. When asked by reporters after the game if the two had a relationship off the court, Wembanyama simply answered, “No.”

Pending any injuries that keep him off the court for an extended period, Wembanyama is expected to be the top rookie this season. The No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft came in with some lofty expectations and more than delivered in four preseason games.

He seems to do something new and unbelievable every time he hits the court, leaving players on opposing team shaking their heads in disbelief. In the most recent win over the Warriors, Wembanyama blocked Klay Thompson’s 3-point attempt at the top of the key and finished with a dunk at the other end. In the same half, he also hit a fadeaway 3-pointer off the dribble and converted on an impossible and-1 while falling out of bounds behind the backboard.

“He’s like an NBA2K cheat code,” Stephen Curry said of Wembanyama last year. “Every point guard wants to be 7-foot and he’s a great talent and plays a very entertaining game.”

It’s not even the regular season yet and some of the best players in the league are already asking to swap jerseys with Wembanyama. Chris Paul, an 18-year vet, was seen exchanging jerseys in the tunnel after the game Friday. It’s a trend that will most likely continue all season long.

🔗 Read more from Krysten Peek on the top rookies to watch this season.

Victor Wembanyama’s journey from France to the NBA

The day after the 2022 draft, Wembanyama was already atop Yahoo Sports’ 2023 mock draft rankings and stayed there through his ultimate selection.

“Right now, it’s Wembanyama and everyone else for the 2023 draft,” one NBA scout told Yahoo Sports in June 2022.

There was intrigue about whether NBA teams would tank for Wembanyama, with the Spurs among the early favorites in that spot.

Meanwhile, Wembanyama and his French team, Metropolitans 92, traveled to the Las Vegas area to play two exhibition games against the G League Ignite and eventual No. 3 draft pick Scoot Henderson, in October 2022. The pair exceeded all expectations in the first game. Wembanyama scored 37 points, with seven 3-pointers, and recorded five blocks in 32 minutes. In the second game, he solidified his No. 1 draft prospect ranking with 36 points, 11 rebounds, four blocks and four assists.

Scoot Henderson of the G League Ignite drives to the basket against Victor Wembanyama of Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 in their exhibition game on Oct. 4, 2022, at The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

When the pingpong balls fell San Antonio’s way during the NBA Draft Lottery in May, it seemed poetic that head coach Gregg Popovich would get another opportunity to develop a generational talent.

After Wembanyama officially declared for the 2023 draft, his pro season in France continued. He skipped the NBA Draft Combine as Mets 92 made a run to the LNB Pro A Finals. Mets 92 were swept by Monaco in the Finals, a small reprieve for Wembanyama, who traveled to New York to prepare for the NBA Draft.

During draft week, Wembanyama got his first look at the bright lights and demands the NBA would entail. His pure joy at being selected No. 1 — no matter how far gone the conclusion was — highlighted the draft’s best moments. He also promised that he wouldn’t be “too tired” to play in the Las Vegas Summer League and said he couldn’t wait to have breakfast tacos in Texas.

At Summer League, all-day session tickets sold out in advance as fans wanted to get an early glimpse at Wembanyama. His debut wasn’t spectacular — nine points, eight rebounds and five blocks — but he made up for it with his second, and final, Summer League game.

After three long months, at least in Wembanyama hype time, the Spurs’ rookie played a (somewhat) meaningful NBA game, going head-to-head with Chet Holmgren in their preseason debuts. Wembanyama scored 20 points with five rebounds and two steals, and, of course, started what should be a long highlight reel this season. His three other preseason games kept the highlights coming until the conclusion with a photo so absurd, you just have to see it.

Now, the hype and expectations continue to grow for a rookie with no true comparisons. We will see how he fares in Game 1 on Wednesday vs. the Dallas Mavericks … and then again for a possible 81 more games this season.

Read more on Wembanyama:

Wemby Watch: Tracking everything you need to know about the Spurs rookie

[ad_2]

Source link

Loading

22 thoughts on “Tracking the San Antonio Spurs rookie in his debut season

  1. Undeniably believe that which you stated. Your favorite justification appeared to be on the net the simplest thing to be aware
    of. I say to you, I definitely get annoyed while people think about worries that they plainly do not
    know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top and defined out the whole thing without having side effect , people
    can take a signal. Will probably be back to get more.
    Thanks

  2. Hi there! This post couldn’t be written much better!
    Reading through this post reminds me of my previous roommate!
    He constantly kept preaching about this. I’ll send this post to him.
    Fairly certain he’ll have a great read. Thank you for sharing!

  3. An impressive share! I have just forwarded this onto a coworker who has been doing a little research on this.
    And he in fact ordered me dinner due to the fact that I stumbled upon it for
    him… lol. So let me reword this…. Thank
    YOU for the meal!! But yeah, thanx for spending time to discuss this subject here on your blog.

  4. Someone essentially assist to make significantly posts I might state.
    That is the very first time I frequented your website page and up to now?
    I amazed with the analysis you made to make this particular
    put up extraordinary. Great task!

  5. This is really fascinating, You are a very professional blogger.

    I have joined your rss feed and sit up for looking
    for more of your magnificent post. Additionally, I’ve shared your site in my social networks

  6. Finding your article has been a pleasure. Packed with insightful content
    and witty commentary, which isn’t easy to come by these days.

    cherish the time you’ve put into your work.

    Your writing style is captivating. You bring a fresh take that has sparked my interest.
    Looking forward to seeing what you write next.
    I just had to leave a comment. Your content resonate with me on a deeper level.
    If you’re planning on offering a newsletter, sign me up! It would
    be a pleasure to have your insights delivered right to
    my inbox.
    Your writing struck a chord with me. It’s not every day you
    come across a blog that invites you to think deeply. I’m excited to
    read more of your thoughts and encourage you to continue sharing.

    Your piece felt like a breath of fresh air. With an overwhelming amount of information online, it’s great to read
    content that’s as engaging and educational as yours.
    Keep it up

    This syntax provides a variety of options for creating a
    positive and encouraging blog comment that compliments the author’s work and
    expresses a desire to continue engaging with their content.

    From time to time, I come across a blog that captures my attention with its depth of
    insight. Yours is undoubtedly one of those rare gems. The way you
    blend your words is not just enlightening but also extremely captivating.

    I applaud the dedication you show towards your craft and eagerly await your future posts.

    In the plethora of the online space, it’s refreshing to encounter
    a writer who puts considerable effort into their work.
    Your posts don’t just offer valuable insights but also stimulate engaging discussions.
    Count me in as a regular reader from this point forward.

    Your blog has become a go-to resource for me, which leads me
    to peruse it often for fresh insights. Each post is
    like a lesson in the subject matter, presented with
    crispness and humor. Would you consider offering a subscription service or a monthly newsletter?

    I would be delighted to get more of your expertise directly to my inbox

    Your distinctive approach to topics is not only refreshing,
    it’s deeply needed in today’s internet landscape.
    Your ability to dissect complex concepts and present them
    in an understandable way is a talent that should not go unnoticed.

    I am excited for your next article and the discussions they’ll inspire.

    Finding a blog that provides both a brain gym and a soulful
    dialogue. Your posts accomplish that, providing a rich blend of knowledge and emotional resonance.

    The audience you’re nurturing here is evidence to your influence and proficiency.
    I’m eager to see where you’ll take us next and I’m all
    in for the ride.

    Upon spending countless hours exploring the depths of the internet
    today, I must say that your blog is like an oasis of insight.
    Not once have I stumbled upon such a trove of captivating thoughts
    that resonate on a substantial level. Your knack for clarifying complex subjects with elegance and keen insight is commendable.
    I’m eagerly waiting for your next piece, believing it will deepen my understanding even further.

    In today’s age of information, where content is plentiful, your blog emerges as a cornerstone of
    authenticity. It’s a rarity to behold a platform of
    the web that adheres to fostering mindful learning. Your well-crafted posts spark
    a desire for learning that many of us crave. I would be honored
    if there’s a possibility to sign up for direct notifications, as
    I do not wish to miss a single enlightening article.

    Your online presence is a testament to what passionate writing should be.
    Each entry you compose is laden with actionable takeaways and deep insights that make me reflect long after
    I’ve finished reading. Your narrative is a refreshing voice to the often noisy internet space.
    Should you decide to an exclusive community, count me among the first to join.
    Your work is worth following.

    I am coming back to your blog frequently, drawn by the standard of discussion you initiate.
    It’s obvious that your blog isn’t just a platform for sharing
    concepts; it’s a community for like-minded individuals who are in search of substantive
    engagement. Your dedication toOf course!

    As soon as I commenced reading your blog, I knew it was something unique.
    Your talent to plunge into challenging topics and unravel them for your audience is truly impressive.

    Each post you publish is a repository of information, and I constantly
    find myself excited to read what you’ll delve into next.
    Your commitment to high-quality content is clear, and I trust that you’ll
    continue providing such valuable perspectives.

    Your blog is a lighthouse in the sometimes turbulent waters of online
    content. Your comprehensive explorations into a multitude of subjects are not only informative but also immensely engaging.
    I respect the way you meld detailed study with personal anecdotes, producing posts that are equally
    informative and enjoyable. If there’s an opportunity to
    sign up for updates your blog or enter a mailing list, I would be grateful to be kept in the loop of your latest musings.

    As a blogger, I’m motivated by the zeal you put into each article.
    You have a talent for making even the most esoteric topics approachable and compelling.
    The way you present information and relate them to broader themes is
    incredibly artful. Kindly inform me if you have any online courses or
    digital resources in the works, as I would love to be guided by your expertise.

    It’s uncommon to encounter a blog that resonates with both
    intellect and emotion. Your pieces are penned with a
    depth of understanding that speaks to the core of the human condition. Every time I visit
    your blog, I leave more informed and inspired. I’m eager to know
    whether you intend to

    When I began exploring your blog, I realized it was something special.
    Your ability to plunge into complex topics and unravel them for your readers is truly remarkable.
    Each entry you publish is a treasure trove of knowledge, and I constantly find myself anxious to discover what you’ll explore next.
    Your commitment to high-quality content is evident, and I trust that you’ll keep on providing such
    invaluable insights.

  7. What’s up all, here every one is sharing these kinds of
    knowledge, therefore it’s fastidious to read this website,
    and I used to pay a visit this webpage every day.

  8. I was recommended this web site by my cousin. I’m not positive whether or not this post is written by way of him as no one else recognize
    such precise approximately my trouble. You’re incredible!

    Thanks!

  9. I used to be suggested this blog by my cousin. I’m not sure whether or
    not this post is written by way of him as no one else recognise
    such distinct about my trouble. You’re incredible!
    Thanks!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *