Wemby Watch: Victor Wembanyama shows out in first 5 NBA games

Stay updated on Victor Wembanyama, the No. 1 pick, as he begins his rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs. Michael C. Wright and Michaela Gilmer from NBA.com will provide a weekly recap of Wembanyama’s performance on and off the court. Don’t miss the new Wemby Watch episodes every Sunday. Let’s take a look at Wembanyama’s first five games in the NBA.

On the court, Wembanyama and the Spurs started the season with a 3-2 record, gaining valuable experience in different game scenarios. On October 25, they had control over the opening-night matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, but a surge from Luka Doncic resulted in a defeat due to poor execution in the late stages of the game. On October 27, the Spurs won in overtime against the Houston Rockets, with Wembanyama struggling initially but shining in the extra period. Two nights later, they suffered their first blowout loss against the LA Clippers. The team then headed to Phoenix for two games against the Suns, resulting in contrasting outcomes. On October 31, Wembanyama played a crucial role in the Spurs’ comeback from a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter, scoring nine of his 18 points in that period. His tip-dunk brought the Spurs within a point, and they eventually secured a 115-114 victory. On November 1, Wembanyama showcased his talent by scoring a mind-boggling career-high 38 points, along with 10 rebounds, a steal, and two blocks. Despite the Suns erasing a 27-point lead, Wembanyama took charge and impressed everyone with his skills.

Wembanyama is a one-man highlight reel, displaying incredible tip passes, pull-up threes, dunks, and blocks. Check out some of Wemby’s clips from the week. His rookie season has started strong, averaging 20 points per game and 8 rebounds.

In terms of statistics, Wembanyama has scored 103 points in his first five career games, joining the ranks of the legendary David Robinson as the second Spur to achieve this feat. He is also the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in 1992 to accumulate 85 or more points, 35 or more rebounds, and 10 or more blocks in his first five games.

A game to mark on your calendar is on November 8 when the Spurs face the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. It will be Wembanyama’s first time playing at this iconic venue, where he will face Jalen Brunson, the Knicks, and the New York media.

Reflecting on his rookie journey so far, Wembanyama humbly acknowledged that he still has a lot to learn and improve compared to players like Kevin Durant. He admires Durant’s patience, pacing, and ability to find his spots on the court. Wembanyama aims to take inspiration from Durant’s game rather than simply copying it.

In terms of fashion, Wembanyama caught attention by dressing up as Slender Man on Halloween, defeating Durant and the Phoenix Suns on that spooky night, and also two days later.

While the French word for a churro does not exist, Wembanyama encountered this delicious treat during his time in San Antonio. Churros, ridged sticks of fried dough coated in cinnamon sugar, are often served as a dessert for pre-game media meals by the Spurs.

During the Spurs’ trip to Santa Monica, fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing rookie before the game against the LA Clippers. Wembanyama expressed his love for the city and how each week brings new challenges and opponents.

NBA veteran Nicolas Batum has been singing the praises of his fellow Frenchman for years, expressing excitement for Wembanyama’s future.

With numerous French reporters closely following Wembanyama, the Spurs have made special accommodations during press conferences to allow questions in French. This led to a funny situation causing laughter among the French media. After the Spurs’ 40-point loss to the LA Clippers, a French reporter asked Wembanyama if that was his first difficult game in the NBA. Wembanyama quickly responded in French, stating that it was actually his third difficult game.

Stay updated with Michael C. Wright, a senior writer for NBA.com, and Michaela Gilmer, a producer for NBA.com, for more insights into Wembanyama’s rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs.

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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.