Victor Wembanyama grew up watching Spurs thanks to the French connection with Tony Parker. But playing for the same franchise is a script that nobody could have predicted. Last year, he took the league by storm where he won the ROTY award and even came second in the DPOY category. To build on the success, the Spurs added The Point God to their roster, and his addition received support from Parker. Plus, the 4x NBA champion detailed how CP3 would add value not only for the team but for Wemby’s game as well.
“I’m very good friend with CP through the years you know we always stayed in contact, my parents, his parents, they get along very well. We always stay in contact. And when he told me he was going to sign with the Spurs before it was announced officially, I was like, ‘No way’. I’m like, ‘What?’ But then I was like, man, it’s going to be great for Victor.”
On the Knuckleheads podcast, Parker first stated that Chris Paul and he share the same agent. Plus, they used to hang out at the Spurs legend’s house even after an intense game. That’s why the French point guard truly understands what Paul brings to the game. “Like he’s going to learn so much for him because Chris is like a coach, you know, and he’s at the end of his career. So he wants to teach and all that kind of stuff. So it’s a blessing to have him with us and to have him in our organization.”
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And the statement from Tony Parker also coincides with better numbers for Victor Wembanyama this season. Almost an increase from every major stat from last season improved the team’s result. Even the 21-year-old last month acknowledged Paul’s ability.
“He’s actually trying to win, trying to find solutions. I think it’s a really unique thing; a trait that you find in all these players, those greats that stick around for years and years. They’re not here just to be here. He’s really purposeful.” After the game against the New Orleans Pelicans 121-116, Wemby stated to the Press.
After leading Oklahoma City with a young Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in 2019-20. Also mentored Devin Booker and Mikal Bridges in the Phoenix during 2020-23. Chris Paul has enough pedigree even when it comes to molding the talent; that’s why even other former players were on board with 12x All-Star’s arrival.
CP3 got the veterans’ backing for helping Victor Wembanyama
In a reported $11 million, one-year deal, the 39-year-old became an important part of Spurs success. Last year at this juncture in the league, the team had a 10-38 record. This year, they have already doubled their winning numbers in just 43 games. Plus the team is in contention for a playoff spot, which was a dream last season that ended on a harsh note.
So, Paul’s additions have the above-mentioned benefits, which Tony Parker mentioned. Even a Celtics legend predicted the same. “Last year, he did not get any easy baskets; everything felt hard or challenged, and rightfully so. Playing with Chris Paul, he is going to get easier baskets.” Kevin Garnett was not wrong about Victor Wembanyama’s improved numbers this season. His beyond-the-arc shooting has increased from 32.5% to 35.3%.
From 21.4 points per game to 24.5 points per game is a significant increase for the French superstar. Wemby’s growth on the court is undoubtedly a result of his own hard work. However, as Tony Parker highlighted on the podcast, having a veteran like Chris Paul, who can always find solutions, has been a big help in his development.
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Can Chris Paul's mentorship turn Victor Wembanyama into the next big NBA superstar?
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