The San Antonio Spurs are beginning their new season with an impressive core group including players like Tre Jones, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, and Zach Collins. However, the basketball world is more curious about the recent addition of first-overall-pick, Victor Wembanyama.
Last season, playing with Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 in the France Pro A League, Wembanyama showed his talents averaging 21.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game. This outstanding performance made him the youngest player to win the league’s MVP title.
However, while addressing the media Spurs’ head coach, Gregg Popovich was questioned about the integration of Wembanyama into the Spurs’ lineup. Popovich with a straight face remained cryptic in his answer, “I have no idea.”
At #Spurs Media Day, a straightfaced Gregg Popovich on how he plans to use 7-4 rookie Victor Wembanyama:
“I have no idea.” pic.twitter.com/x3ICx7AeTO
— Nate Ryan (@nateryansports) October 2, 2023
Popovich offered insights on how the Spurs plan to use their fresh talent. Popovich stated, “He’s got to develop… like every other player.” The Spurs’ plan to closely observe Wembanyama over the next few weeks to understand his idiosyncrasies and his gameplay. The goal is to understand him like how they know their other players.
Gregg Popovich, Spurs ready for Victor Wembanyama’s media attention
Spurs’ newest addition, Wembanyama has not only brought exceptional skills to the table but also an increased media presence. However, Popovich believes the growing attention won’t unsettle the team. He stated, “Because I know the players and because (Wembanyama) has such high character and he’s used to it. This isn’t the first time he’s gotten attention, I think just handling it organically is better than making decisions ahead of time.”
Wembanyama has been the center of attention since his summer league practices, and it is anticipated that this will continue as the season progresses. Wembanyama shared his thoughts on the matter, stating that the spotlight doesn’t bother him. His main focus remains on improving the team’s performance and highlighted the phrase “it’s basketball first.” He believes that while media attention is unavoidable, the core of the team’s relationship is mostly based on mutual sacrifices and a shared commitment to the sport.
Spurs HC Gregg Popovich on how Victor Wembanyama fits in with the Spurs. pic.twitter.com/kEkMNVZZEs
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) October 2, 2023
“They know I don’t care about it,” Victor Wembanyama said. “I’m here to make sacrifices for them and I think when it’s needed, they’re also going to make sacrifices for me. And they know it’s different. They know it’s going to happen. Of course, there’s going to be a lot of attention, but it’s at the end of the day when everything is done and we’re at practice and I’m like, ‘Yeah, OK, what do we do to get this thing better?’ So it’s really stuff we don’t care about. It’s basketball first.”
As the Spurs navigate this new chapter with Wembanyama, it is clear that both the player and the team are prioritizing unity, growth, and a shared vision for success. Spurs have their regular season opener against the Dallas Mavericks on October 26th.