Say it’s a lot publicity about Victor Wembanyama would be an understatement. It’s not that the French player is projected to be the next No. 1 pick in the 2023 Draft, but rather that he’s one of the most anticipated prospects ever NBA have seen for a long time.
To put in context, Wembanyama was recently measured and the data showed height 2.23cm (7-4) and a wingspan of 2.43 cm (8 feet). Huge dimensions that will allow him to score any ball near the hoop without further complications, as well as protect the paint like no other. But this is not a traditional interior, as he has an interesting jump shot and the ability to create with the ball.
If asked, he will say which has something of Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Rudy Gobert in his game, meaning two members of the 75th Anniversary team and a 3-time Defensive Player of the Year winner.
There’s no doubt that Wembanyama has all the tools to become an NBA superstar, but he’s the biggest promise the league has seen since Lebron James in 2003; His staff The SportingNews Think about it.
Fact or fiction?: Victor Wembanyama is the biggest draft prospect since LeBron James
Kyle Irving (@kyleirv_): My answer is, without a doubt, that it is true.
When I think of some of the most anticipated post-LeBron projects, my mind immediately goes to guys like AAnthony Davis or Zion WilliamsonAnd I think that Wembanyama is more advanced in its development by either of these two.
AD was a phenomenon in his first year at Kentucky, leading the Wildcats to an NCAA championship. But despite his dominance on the defensive end (averaging 4.8 blocks), there were plenty of questions about how his offensive game would translate to the NBA. While he eventually became a true inside-out threat, Davies was unable to handle the ball or create his own shot as fluidly as Wembanyama.
As for Williamson, as physically dominant as he was at Duke, there were always questions about his ability to defend in the best league in the world. Due to injuries and unavailability, these questions remain unanswered to this day.
The only concerns surrounding Wembanyama have to do with durability, which is inevitable for someone as big as him. In terms of his talent and ability on the field, there aren’t many obstacles the French can’t overcome.
Gilbert McGregor (@GMcGregor21): Although there have been a large number prospects remarkable in the last 20 years, I think Wembanyama tops the list.
Like Kyle, I’m thinking of Davis, Williamson, and even Luka Doncic (who, in hindsight, probably should have been the #1 pick!) as other level prospects publicity comparable.
After that, The hype around Wembanyama is different. And for good reason.
Nowadays, information spreads within seconds; More often than not, freaks come and go when people get tired of them and fall in love with the next one. It’s been years since we first heard about Wembanyama, and since there’s never been anyone like him, he’s been on fans’ minds ever since.
Wembanyama’s unique physical profile and gift for the game make him a truly unique and unmissable project. Just like LeBron 20 years agowe know that any team lucky enough to get Wembanyama will immediately change their fortunes.
Jordan Greer (@jordangreer42): Design experts don’t always get their assessments right, but when so many smart people are saying the same thing, it’s best to listen:
- TMike Schmitz, Trail Blazers executive and former ESPN analyst: “I’ve long considered the 18-year-old French player the best project I’ve personally evaluated.”
- The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie: “It’s hard to say anything other than Wembanyama’s ceiling is higher than anyone who’s been in the league for a while. His resources are outrageous.”
- SB Nation’s Ricky O’Donnell: “The 2023 NBA draft will revolve around Victor Wembanyama, the best draft pick since LeBron.”
- Krysten Peek of Yahoo! Sports: “Wembanyama is the most talked-about prospect among NBA scouts and executives since LeBron James in 2003 and is the heavy favorite to be #1 in 2023 by far. The Frenchman will be the biggest international player and talent, surpassing Luka Doncic and two-time MVP Nikola Jokic.”
Gil and Kyle reported some similar cases from previous years. Wembanyama may never be topped in the NBA by someone like Davis, Doncic or Williamson. There will be injury concerns due to his physicality and he may just not live up to the hype. Again, this is a guessing game.
However, on Wembanyama’s position on this point, I have to agree with my colleagues. It’s the best work we’ve seen since 2003.
The views expressed here do not necessarily represent the NBA or its organizations.
