In the San Antonio Spurs’ season opener against the Dallas Mavericks, Victor Wembanyama showcased that he is not human. He posted an eye-popping 40 points, 15 rebounds, and zero turnovers, all while embarrassing Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II on both ends of the floor.
Fans have long known that the Spurs’ playoff and title hopes hinge on Wembanyama. However, it was hard to imagine a 21-year-old, even this 21-year-old, making a splash in the MVP race with limited NBA experience.
After just one game, any concerns the Spurs may have had have been silenced. In an effort to do a little bit of everything, Wembanyama has embraced a new role.
GettySAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – OCTOBER 25: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs looks to shoot against Dereck Lively II #2 of the Dallas Mavericks during the fourth quarter at Frost Bank Center on October 25, 2023 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Wemby Emerges as San Antonio Spurs’ Enforcer
Wembanyama is bigger, faster, and stronger than he ever has been. In his first two seasons, he looked somewhat fragile, especially going up against physical players like Davis.
It’s clear that his meekness is a thing of the past. If he wants to get to the hoop, good luck stopping him. He boasts the nimbleness to go around, the height to go over, and the strength to go through any defenders standing in his way.
“I talked to someone in San Antonio last night, and they said that Victor is relishing being the bully,” revealed Brian Windhorst on the Hoop Collective podcast.
In years past, the Spurs have asked Zach Collins, Jeremy Sochan, and, to an extent, Keldon Johnson to serve as “eforcers,” protecting their prized star. This season, Kelly Olynyk was expected to play a similar role.
Now that Wembanyama is an imposing physical force on both ends with added strength, he should be able to hold his own against anyone in the league.
Victor Wembanyama Focused on Dominating
Even before Wembanyama joined the NBA, the hype was apparent. He is one of only a few draft prospects with a bar this high. If he doesn’t end his career with multiple MVP awards and titles, his time in the league will be considered a failure.
While fans and the media hold him to an insane standard, the bar he sets for himself is even higher.
“The guy takes a lot of pride in his work ethic, and that certainly is seen in the weight room,” added Tim MacMahon. “He’s taken pride in the fact that he can overpower people, not just be taller than them. But there were multiple times, including against Anthony Davis, where he gave a bump to create space before going up.”
In order to “take pride” in his abilities, having an “enforcer” on the court is not necessary. This is someone who wants to hold his own and is now able to, even against physically dominating players.
“His whole singular focus is to be the most dominant basketball player on the planet, maybe the most dominant basketball player ever,” said Tim Bontempts.
After one game this season, it seems like he’s well on his way.
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