The 2023-24 NBA season marked the beginning of Victor Wembanyama’s journey in the league, a player who is expected to be the next big thing in basketball.
Even before getting into the league, Victor Wembanyama generated a lot of buzz among fans. In fact, many have compared the buzz to when LeBron James was drafted into the Association back in 2003.
Keeping that in mind, Wemby had a tough task living up to those expectations during his rookie year. For what it’s worth, the 20-year-old had a terrific first season as he averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game for the San Antonio Spurs. On top of that, the French star showcased his defensive acumen over 71 games.
Victor Wembanyama touted as the best defender, per NBA GMs
Usually, it takes rookies a couple of seasons to adjust in the league before being acknowledged for awards. However, Wemby has seemingly impressed NBA general managers across the league with his defensive ability in just one season.
As per the latest anonymous poll conducted by the league, Wembanyama received 40% votes from GMs as the best defender in the league heading into the 2024-25 season.
Wembanyama edged past veterans such as Bam Adebayo, Rudy Gobert, and Giannis Antetokounmpo to earn the honor. Speaking of which, it’s obvious that the GMs are predicting Wemby to win the 2024-25 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. However, fans on X (formerly known as Twitter) didn’t love the prediction.
One fan questioned how has Wembanyama already surpassed veteran defenders like Gobert and Adebayo, writing: “what has Wemby proven to be better than Bam, Gobert and AD defensively?”
Multiple fans were unhappy over Anthony Davis‘ disrespect in the debate, with one writing: “AD disrespect is insane.”
“I think it’s Anthony Davis,” wrote another, in response to the question over who really is the best defender in the NBA.
The Spurs star is good, there are no two ways about it. But is he better than the battle-tested veterans of the NBA? It might be too soon to say that.
Wembanyama showed great signs during rookie year
Being the No. 1 overall pick with a unique physique, Wembanyama had a plethora of eyes on him during his rookie year. At times, players may succumb to such immense pressure of performing for millions of fans, but Wemby is not your average player.
The 7’4″ giant posted excellent numbers with terrific shooting. To put things into perspective, Wemby shot 46.5% from the field and 32.5% from the three-point line.
But the true testament to Wembanyama’s skills was seen on defense. He finished second in the DPOY voting in his rookie year. Now, that’s talent. He also led the league in blocks with 3.6 BPG over 71 matchups. It wasn’t a surprise that he unanimously won the 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year award.
The Spurs’ cornerstone star should be able to hone his skills further in the offseason and hopefully lead the team back to playoffs. Following last season’s 14th-seed finish in the Western Conference, the Spurs’ playoff drought increased to five years.
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