Victor Wembanyama has quickly emerged as a standout player in the NBA since being selected first overall by the San Antonio Spurs. His unique skill set, combined with his towering physique, caught the attention of players and fans alike even before he took the court for San Antonio. In his rookie season (2023-2024), Wembanyama averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game across 71 contests, culminating in him earning the Rookie of the Year award. This rapid rise has fueled high expectations around his future impact.
Performance and Experience at the 2024 Summer Olympics
Following the NBA season, Wembanyama represented France at the 2024 Summer Olympics, which took place in his home country. Alongside teammate Guerschon Yabusele, he helped lead the French National Team to the gold medal game. Despite a strong showing, France was narrowly defeated by the United States in a thrilling final matchup. Yabusele’s standout performances during the Olympics earned him a contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, and he has since signed a two-year, $12 million deal with the New York Knicks.
Yabusele Reflects on Wembanyama’s Development and Skills
Speaking on The Roommates Show alongside new Knicks teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, Guerschon Yabusele shared his observations about Victor Wembanyama’s evolution since entering the league.
The only thing that I was worried about was that he was really skinny. So, I was like, ‘I know he is going to put up some muscle’. I was like, ‘When he is going to come to the league, he is going to change his body, he’s not going to stay like this.’ I knew this was coming, but I was like, ‘OK, he’s really, really skinny.’ But what impressed me was the skills,
Yabusele said.
Who does that? You’re just too tall to be doing stuff like that. When he changed his body and went to the league, I saw his transformation. I was like, ‘OK, Wemby is the next one, for sure.’
Yabusele’s remarks highlight how Wembanyama’s physical development combined with his uncommon abilities have elevated his presence in the league and contributed to the Spurs’ renewed energy.
Historical Context: Spurs’ Tradition of Formidable Trios
The San Antonio Spurs are once again building a team around a young generational talent, reminiscent of their storied past. The franchise famously captured four NBA titles with a core of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginóbili, and Tony Parker, who developed a lasting style of play. Now a new trio is forming around Victor Wembanyama, signaling a potential new era of success for the Spurs organization.
Wembanyama’s Current Status and Future Prospects
While Wembanyama missed a large portion of the 2024-2025 season due to a blood clot issue, he is expected to return fully healthy as the next season begins in October. Surrounded by promising teammates and growth opportunities, the Spurs appear poised to become a competitive postseason team. Wembanyama’s health and continued progression will be critical for the Spurs’ ambitions moving forward.