After conquering Paris last year, the American basketball royalty is again in the heart of French populace. But this time, their own Victor Wembanyama is rather representing the US colors. Le Blues’ biggest export since Tony Parker is the center of attention in the NBA Paris fixture between the Spurs and the Pacers. Alongside the 7’4″ alien is Chris Paul who has redefined his greatness this season. And in a typical veteran manner, he has turned into the shield for his towering teammate. Why? Because the narrative about Wemby’s ball hog play rather than living in the paint life.

Speaking about the reality of today’s NBA and the Spurs, CP made sure to clear the air surrounding it. “When you sign everybody’s like, oh, Lob City number 2, you know what I mean? All this stuff, but it’s different because Vic (Victor Wembanyama) is so unique,” Chris Paul told the media in Paris. For those of you confused about the Lob City reference, it’s actually the Clippers, where CP3 has spent six seasons. But the Spurs is different the veteran believed. “I think everybody just expects him to dunk because he’s tall, and that is not him by any means. He can dribble, he can pass, he can shoot, he does a little bit of everything, and that’s why it’s been so fun to play with Vic,” he added.

Wemby’s height definitely ticks the common stereotype that it’ll be easier for him to dunk but his abilities are not restricted to that. As his teammate pointed out, there’s so much more to his game. “I’m a guy who goes for steals. I just don’t know how to not go for steals. And so to play with Vic now, guys will dribble into the lane and I’ll reach and get a foul and Vic will just tap me on the shoulder and remind me that he’s back there.”

This season, Wembanyama is averaging 24.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 4 blocks, and over a steal per game. These numbers alone explain why Chris Paul is in awe of Wemby’s impact on both ends of the court. Moreover, the increased output of 3s. Last season Wemby was shooting 32.5% from beyond the arc. And this season that has gone up to 35.4%. Coach Mitch Johnson has been extra careful about improving those number, molding Wemby into a 3-point threat giant.

But it’s not just his hardwood skills that have impressed CP3, it’s also the French center’s new role, which has helped in the team’s European visit.

Chris Paul talks about Victor Wembanyama turning into guide in Paris

The Spurs are in Paris for their back-to-back games against the Pacers. Being from France, Wembanyama took it upon himself to make sure the entire squad experienced everything the city had to offer. From the famous landmarks to the delicious food, he essentially became their tour guide, sharing the best of Paris with his teammates.

“He’s very giving as far as, like, making sure that we experience everything that we can while we’re here. You know, if it’s going to see where he played when he was younger, if it’s the different foods that we try and stuff, and I think that’s what’s really cool,” Chris Paul revealed. “He just wants us to be comfortable.”

The Spurs’ French experience was even amplified by Louis Vuitton. The $364 billion giant sponsored Spurs Jerseys and those are all sold-out. There’s no guessing who the home crowd will be favoring in tonight’s Spurs vs Pacers game. And Wembanyama might even make the money worth for the Parisian fans turning it in Lob City with CP3.