And the much-awaited debut of the 7?4 Frenchman was much talked about this entire preseason for his shot-blocking. However, tonight Luka put him back in his place, showing what experience teaches the player.
Victor Wembanyama started slowly in the first quarter, but he also showcased some electric shots against the Dallas Mavericks in the last seven minutes. Although head coach Gregg Popovich made a harsh decision and sat Wembanyama on the bench for most of the game, he decided to unleash him with 7:12 remaining. Despite all this, it was a spoiled debut for the rookie.
Mavericks Outshine Victor Wembanayama
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In short, not a good curtain-raiser for a player with immense talent, but ‘no experience’. The Mavericks, on the other hand, were having their best game tonight. There was a well-built partnership between Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving for the night. With Luka assisting Kyrie and Kyrie scoring, first with the 3-point jump shot, and then again with the 2-point running finger roll layup, it was indeed a spectacular play.
The 11 x 77 connection is real ? pic.twitter.com/yDko7MFwuJ
? Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) October 26, 2023
What they spoiled was the debut game night of the ?Alien?. With all eyes on Wembanyama, the 8-foot-wide wingspan couldn?t be put to the test tonight.
With a score of 33 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, Luka Doncic registered a triple-double. Not only that, LuKa, being a great facilitator, helped Kyrie register a tally of 22 points and 2 rebounds. What mattered was the legendary step-back by Luka Dagger that reassured the Spurs crowd for a victory.
While Dagger put on a great show after a recent calf injury, Kyrie scored a 22, and Derek Lively II electrified the crowd, Vic was sitting on the bench. Not before the fourth quarter did he actually score points.
Foul Trouble for Victor Wembanyama?
Victor was fouled initially at 8:38 in the first quarter, where Derrik Jones Jr. drew the foul for shooting. Then again, at 0:43, he observed a personal foul. That was not all from the player, as the saga continued in the third quarter with two offensive fouls.
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No doubt, the coach had to bench the player for most of the game. With just 23 minutes on the hardwood, it was a slow pickup on behalf of the No. 1 overall draft of 2023. It turns out the second-most anticipated player to make his debut didn’t really stand on a pedestal.
Read More: Despite Heartbreaking FIBA Loss, Luka Doncic?s Iconic Feat Gains Shaquille O?Neal?s Silent Approval
By the end of the fourth quarter, the San Antonio Spurs were trailing behind, and hence the Mavericks registered a win. The final score was 129?119, with the Mavericks parading back with great pomp and show.
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WATCH THIS STORY???Shaquille O?Neal?s Near-Death Equestrian Saga With a Vengeful Horse
There’s still hope for the 7’4 ‘Alien’, with the Houston Rockets on the night of October 27th. Stay tuned for further updates on the next game.