The NBA world is excited to see the San Antonio Spurs’ newest addition, 19-year-old rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. He is praised as the upcoming star in basketball and is already been compared to players like LeBron James. But, as the season new season comes closer, the young talent has a message for the world: “I’m just a rookie.”
In a recent interview, Wembanyama was open about his hopes and fears for the coming new season. “What’s realistic and ambitious to me would be going to the playoffs,” Wembanyama said. “But I’m just a rookie, I don’t know much about the NBA. I’m really willing to work and learn as quick as I can. Because I want to win.”
Victor Wembanyama:
“What’s realistic and ambitious to me would be going to the playoffs. But I’m just a rookie, I don’t know much about the NBA. I’m really willing to work and learn as quick as I can. Because I want to win.”
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— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 7, 2023
Wembanyama had a successful career in the French Pro A League with Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92, becoming its youngest-ever MVP. However, he admits that the NBA is a whole different game, and repeating such success is no guarantee.
Victor Wembanyama believes it might be sometime before he makes it to the playoffs
Victor Wembanyama’s journey in the NBA has just started, and the anticipation around him is increasing day by day, but he is still hesitant to expect immediate success. San Antonio has experienced a lot of challenges since the legendary Tim Duncan’s retirement. Now, with Wembanyama in the team, the city’s hopes are high for a revival.
But will his weak body be able to handle the demanding 82-game NBA season? Experts have addressed this question, suggesting that bulking up might be essential for him to meet the physical challenges of the NBA.
During the recent San Antonio Spurs media day, questions came about the team’s strategy, especially the starting lineup. While Coach Gregg Popovich remained cryptic, dropping hints with references to Spurs’ legend Manu Ginobili’s bench role, it is clear that sacrifices might be coming. Wembanyama’s role as a starter or otherwise will be crucial in the team’s dynamics, especially given the strong returning core, including players like Tre Jones, Devin Vassell, and Keldon Johnson.
Gregg Popovich on the Spurs starting lineup:
“If Manu Ginóbili can come off the bench, anybody can and I don’t wanna hear it.”
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— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 3, 2023
“I’ve had no such discussions with anyone,” Popovich said. “But if Manu Ginobili can come off the bench, anybody can and I don’t wanna hear it.”
As the Spurs gear up for their regular season opener against the Dallas Mavericks on October 26th, Wembanyama’s journey in the NBA will be closely watched. Whether the Spurs reach the playoffs or not, Victor Wembanyama is ready to give it his all.