Tracking the San Antonio Spurs rookie in his debut season

Victor Wembanyama is generating significant buzz as the most highly anticipated NBA prospect since LeBron James. The 19-year-old point-forward is set to make his NBA debut in the regular season, and his unique playing style sets him apart from anyone else in the world. Standing at an impressive 7-foot-4 with an almost 8-foot wingspan, Wembanyama surprises with his ability to handle the ball, shoot from long range like Stephen Curry, and make defensive plays as a rim protector and wing defender.

Born and raised in Le Chesnay, France, a suburb outside of Paris, Wembanyama comes from an athletic family. His mother, Elodie de Fautereau, played basketball at a high level, while his father, Felix, excelled in high jump and track. His older sister, Eve, also achieved success in basketball, winning a gold medal with France at the 2017 U16 European Championship. Before focusing solely on basketball, Wembanyama showcased his skills as an elite soccer goalkeeper in his youth.

Even at the age of 14, Wembanyama turned heads when he helped France’s JSF Nanterre U18 team reach the French League runner-up position, despite being much younger than his teammates. Scouts across Europe started taking notice of the lanky center who had no fear of shooting deep three-pointers, attacking the lane, and playing the game in an unconventional manner. It was clear from an early age that Wembanyama possessed a unique combination of size and skills. Despite offers to move to basketball powerhouse Barcelona, Wembanyama chose to remain in France and further develop his game. He eventually played for ASVEL Villeurbanne in the EuroLeague and represented the U19 French national team.

In the summer of 2021, all NBA scouts had their eyes on Wembanyama as he went head-to-head with 7-foot Chet Holmgren, the No. 2 overall pick in that year’s draft, during the FIBA U19 World Cup gold-medal game. Despite being a year younger than everyone else on the court, Wembanyama put on a remarkable performance, recording eight blocks and scoring 22 points in an MVP-worthy display. Although Team USA narrowly defeated France 83-81, Holmgren winning MVP honors with 10 points and five assists in 23 minutes, Wembanyama’s dominance was undeniable. Throughout the tournament, he set a FIBA World Cup record for blocked shots with 40, averaging 5.7 blocks per game, while Holmgren only managed 19 blocks.

One NBA scout told Yahoo Sports, “Never have I ever seen Chet Holmgren overshadowed physically like he was last year whenever the two met. [Wembanyama] practically can 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.” Undoubtedly, Wembanyama would have been the No. 1 overall pick in 2022 and potentially the top pick in the last three draft classes. He’s considered the best young prospect in the world and now serves as the building block for the San Antonio Spurs’ quest for another NBA championship.

Wembanyama’s journey to the NBA began when he topped Yahoo Sports’ 2023 mock draft rankings the day after the 2022 draft and maintained that position until his ultimate selection. NBA teams were even rumored to be considering tanking for the chance to draft Wembanyama, with the Spurs emerging as early favorites. In the meantime, Wembanyama, representing the French team Metropolitans 92, traveled to Las Vegas to play exhibition games against the G League Ignite and Scoot Henderson, the eventual No. 3 draft pick in 2022. In their first game, Wembanyama’s performance exceeded expectations, with 37 points, including seven three-pointers, and five blocks. He solidified his top draft prospect status in the second game, recording 36 points, 11 rebounds, four blocks, and four assists.

When the NBA Draft Lottery granted the San Antonio Spurs the No. 1 pick in May, it seemed fitting that head coach Gregg Popovich would have the opportunity to develop this generational talent. While continuing his pro season in France, Wembanyama declared for the 2023 draft. Despite skipping the NBA Draft Combine, he led Mets 92 to the LNB Pro A Finals before they were swept by Monaco. Following the Finals, Wembanyama traveled to New York City to prepare for the NBA Draft and experienced the bright lights and demands that come with being a top prospect. His excitement at being selected No. 1, although expected, was a standout moment of the draft. He also expressed his eagerness to participate in the Las Vegas Summer League and indulge in breakfast tacos in Texas.

Fans eagerly awaited the Summer League to catch their first glimpse of Wembanyama, and while his debut wasn’t extraordinary (nine points, eight rebounds, and five blocks), he made up for it in his second and final game. Finally, after three long months of hype, the Spurs rookie faced off against Chet Holmgren, the highly regarded rookie from the 2022 draft class, in their preseason debuts. Wembanyama proved his worth by scoring 20 points, grabbing five rebounds, and securing two steals. These performances showcased the beginning of what promises to be a season filled with highlights. The rookie’s other three preseason games continued to provide memorable moments, culminating in a jaw-dropping photo that must be seen to be believed.

Now, the excitement and expectations surrounding this rookie with no true comparison continue to grow. The Dallas Mavericks will be the first test for Wembanyama and his journey in the NBA. Fans eagerly await the possibility of witnessing 81 more games filled with his remarkable skills and talents throughout the season.

For more updates on Victor Wembanyama, follow Wemby Watch: Tracking everything you need to know about the Spurs rookie.

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Emily Turner

Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.