The San Antonio Spurs faced defeat at the hands of the Milwaukee Bucks tonight. While that might have been the case, Victor Wembanyama had enough special moments to not be disappointed on his birthday. Heavily guarded by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the 20-year-old managed to slam a few highlight reels, making the crowd go crazy.
But the Frenchman knows this is not enough. Chet Holmgren and Wemby have been getting the major share of rookie attention this season. While it was predicted that 7’4 Wembanyama would take a front row, Holmgren has shined every month. Chet also bagged last month’s Rookie of the Month award.
Losses do not dishearten Victor Wembanyama
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When asked whether it motivates him to perform better, he nodded while also issuing a warning. “I know that in the end, I will get what I deserve. Every game is a statement from now on,” he asserts.
Le titre de Rookie du mois et les résultats du vote pour le All-Star Game ont-ils motivé Victor Wembanyama ce soir ? « Bien sûr. »
Wemby : « Je sais qu’au bout du compte, j’aurai ce que je mérite. Chaque match est un “statement” à partir de maintenant. » pic.twitter.com/p3EPe56z0R
— Benjamin Moubèche (@BenjaminMoubech) January 5, 2024
As it should. Gregg Popovich has been on a rebuilding streak this season. With the plan in motion to build a brilliant roster around the “generational talent,” this year has been one of finding the right fit. While Pop does have the luxury of trying different game plans, the legendary coach himself admitted that his young team needs consistency.
The struggles of the young Spurs
When a team is building around a player that is 7’4 with a wingspan of 8-foot (!), one would imagine them to capitalize on all the advantages it offers. Sadly, that’s not what’s happening. Here’s one example.
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The team ranks fourth in assists at 29.1. Their points per game (111.2), however, land them at the 25th position in the league. While the players are obviously unselfish when it comes to ball handling, the question of why the ball doesn’t find Wemby stands unanswered.
Although there have been changes to that recently, an NBA fan would naturally be confused as to why Popovich is not being aggressive here. Especially, those who have seen him during his prime days, when Pop would simply give it straight to his team for not feeding Tim Duncan the ball.
That brings us to another highly debated topic – the need for a veteran in the team. Someone older than Zach Collins. While Wembanyama does get opportunities to be mentored by some of the NBA’s greatest, the results of having an on-court veteran mentor hits differently. Until that happens, Hall of Fame coach, Gregg Popovich will have to assume that role.
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Watch This Story: Victor Wembanyama Impresses Dwight Howard With Record-Breaking Game