In only a yr and a half, Victor Wembanyama has solidified his place because the San Antonio Spurs’ undisputed star and probably the most impactful gamers within the NBA. Standing a powerful 7’3” with a uncommon mix of dimension, ability, and flexibility, he’s shaping as much as be a generational expertise destined for a spot in league historical past. His time in San Antonio has additionally given him a deeper understanding of the staff’s tradition—the place he’s recognized some similarities between head coach Gregg Popovich and veteran teammate Chris Paul.
Wembanyama spoke this week with the French newspaper L’Equipe, the place he shared his ideas on Chris Paul. Simply days earlier, Paul had candidly admitted to the identical outlet, “I do know I may be arduous to take generally.” When requested about that remark and his relationship with the 39-year-old veteran, Wembanyama acknowledged Paul’s distinctive persona, stating, “He speaks and not using a filter.”
Delving additional, Victor elaborated on Paul’s simple nature, emphasizing it as a optimistic trait. “He says issues very immediately, however at all times with good intentions. I’ve by no means seen him speak badly about anybody behind his again,” the 20-year-old middle defined.
“Positive, it may be arduous for some folks to take, however right here in San Antonio, it’s a part of the tradition, particularly with Pop (Gregg Popovich),” Wembanyama mentioned with a chuckle. The French star drew a parallel between his head coach—at the moment sidelined resulting from well being points—and Chris Paul. This shared directness, Wembanyama famous, displays a core side of the franchise’s identification and has undoubtedly contributed to its sustained success through the years.
Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs and Chris Paul #3 react to a name in motion towards the Washington Wizards within the second half at Frost Financial institution Heart on November 13, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas.
Spurs’ challenges amid accidents
Throughout the identical interview, Victor Wembanyama addressed the difficulties the staff has confronted this season resulting from accidents. Key gamers like Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, Stephon Fort, and Wembanyama himself have missed time, making it difficult for the Spurs to ascertain consistency.
“It’s true that we haven’t actually had the possibility to get used to common rotations,” Wembanyama admitted. “However you must adapt to any sport plan.” Regardless of the setbacks, the French sensation emphasised the significance of staff chemistry. “It doesn’t actually matter as a result of, on the finish of the day, all of us practice collectively. We combine groups and we all know one another, regardless of which teammate we’re taking part in with.”
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Wembanyama on his bodily situation
Wembanyama not too long ago returned to the court docket after lacking two video games resulting from low again soreness, placing up a powerful 25 factors and 10 rebounds in a 121-116 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Reflecting on his restoration, Wembanyama remained optimistic. “Let’s simply say I really feel higher than yesterday, however inferior to tomorrow. Having a number of days off does me good,” he defined.
With 5 days off earlier than the Spurs’ matchup towards the Portland Path Blazers, he expressed confidence in his progress. “I can take the knocks in coaching, hold lifting weights, so it’s beneath management. It’s nothing main, only a kind of ache I’ve by no means skilled earlier than in my profession, which might forestall me from doing sure issues.”
