Victor Wembanyama

On May 16, 2023, five long months before Victor Wembanyama’s now well-known name would become a commonality over the San Antonio Spurs’ loudspeakers, there remained a sense that the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery would hold a special significance with the “most hyped prospect in two decades” being up for grabs. With little doubt over who would be selected No. 1, the 7-foot-4, do-it-all marvel has fittingly rewarded the Alamo City’s faith by giving them little to doubt about his potential over the coming months. Putting his Defensive Player of the Year-caliber traits and All-Star potential on display from Day One, Wembanyama introduced himself to both the Dallas Mavericks and the NBA’s history books with face-up jumpers, 3-point shooting of every variation, polite pleasantries around the rim, and defensive statements, commanding both the attention and awe of his new fanbase. Matching the lofty expectations with a Texas-sized impact, the rookie star recorded 15 points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block in just 23 minutes of action in his debut on October 25, 2023.

Three-Star Rookie