In a league where wins define success, the San San Antonio Spurs have been facing challenges for the last two seasons. Amidst the struggles, their rookie Victor Wembanyama emerged as a beacon of hope. Despite winning the Rookie of the Year, Wemby had intense training even after the season ended. Just days after the season concluded, he was already back in the gym, pushing himself through demanding two-a-day workouts.

As Shams Charania of ESPN says, “Victor Wembanyama had that the day after the regular season ended with the Spurs. Last year they didn’t make the playoffs; they’re one of the worst teams in the league. He was in the gym doing two-a-days as soon as last season ended.” This motivation for his second season and his commitment could redefine both his career and the Spurs’ trajectory. This commitment not only showcases his dedication but also lays the groundwork for his intensive training regimen.

This dedication isn’t new. As Charania further added, “This is a guy who last year going into his rookie year put on 10 to 15 pounds.” Showcasing his commitment to growth, the 30-year-old reporter added, “This summer, he puts on 20 to 25 pounds.” However, he has not lost any weight; instead, he has focused on gaining muscle and strength. For elite athletes, weight management is crucial, and for Wembanyama, it goes beyond just numbers.

As he gears up for the upcoming season, Wembanyama’s training regimen has been intense. His routine focuses on agility and strength—essential attributes for a player of his height. “He is a relentless worker; we see that he’s focused, he’s detail-oriented as they come.” With countless hours dedicated to his craft, one can’t help but ask: How will these weight changes affect his agility and overall performance? But, do you know this workout began before his NBA days?

Victor Wembanyama: The making of a basketball phenomenon

This intense training was started when he was in Metropolitans 92. Yes, Guillaume Alquier, the strength and conditioning coach for Metropolitans 92, revealed in an interview with ESPN, Wemby’s training strategy. “He’s adding some weight normally, but not 10 pounds, or 20 pounds every month,” Alquier noted. “That could be difficult for his motor control, his knees, his joints. We try to build it as best as we can.”

What does this careful approach mean for Wemby’s potential? Alquier emphasized the need for leg strength: “The most important thing is to have strength in the legs, to produce force to play basketball.” This foundation enabled Wembanyama to excel in the paint, defend fiercely, and post up effectively. Core activation and injury prevention were also prioritized to ensure he remained healthy during the season.

In his time with the Metropolitans 92 from the 2022 to 2023 season, he showcased his abilities by averaging 21.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game while shooting 47% from the floor. These impressive stats laid the groundwork for his successful transition to the NBA. And with the Spurs, last season, he averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and shot 46.5% from the field.

As Wembanyama enters his second NBA season, anticipation is high for his growth. In a recent preseason matchup against the Magic, he scored 11 points in 23 minutes but struggled with his shooting, hitting only 4 of 15 attempts. Despite the ups and downs, his immense talent and work ethic suggest a promising trajectory. Fans are eager to see how he will refine his skills and increase his impact on the court. With the Spurs looking to rebuild, can Wembanyama rise to the occasion and transform potential into performance? The season holds many exciting possibilities.