San Antonio Spurs player Victor Wembanyama is making waves in the NBA.
The Spurs (57-18) are currently the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, marking their return to the playoffs for the first time since 2019, largely because of Wembanyama’s impressive performance. As the regular season comes to an end, it’s essential to acknowledge the impact he has had on the Spurs.
Wembanyama Surpassing Spurs Legends
Recently, Wembanyama led the Spurs to a commanding 129-114 victory over the Chicago Bulls, scoring 41 points, grabbing 16 rebounds, and making three blocks.
With that performance, Wembanyama now holds more 40-point games (seven) than Spurs greats like Tim Duncan (five), Manu Ginobili (six), Tony Parker (three), and Kawhi Leonard (one).
It’s important to note that Wembanyama has played only 176 games in his career so far, and more 40-point games are likely as his career develops.
A Strong Season for Wembanyama
This season, Wembanyama has excelled on both offense and defense. He averages 24.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 3.1 blocks per game. He leads the NBA in total blocks and is fifth in rebounds.
His ability to defend the rim while being an effective team player has helped the Spurs rank seventh in points allowed in the paint. Additionally, at 7-foot-4, his skills as a ball-handler and perimeter shooter have made him a standout two-way player.
At 22 years old, he has continued his strong performance after a previous season affected by blood clots. In his second season, he averaged 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks, which earned him his first All-Star nod.
Wembanyama is now on track to make his first All-NBA team, contend for the Defensive Player of the Year award, and be a finalist for the MVP award in just his third season.