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How Victor Wembanyama is Changing the NBA
Wembanyama with a follow-up dunk on his own missed 3-pointer!
The NBA has seen many great players over the years, but none quite like Victor Wembanyama. The 19-year-old French phenom, who was selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the first pick of the 2023 NBA draft, has taken the league by storm with his unprecedented combination of size, skill, and athleticism. Standing at 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 metres) and weighing 210 pounds (95 kilograms), Wembanyama is tied with Boban Marjanović as the tallest active NBA player. But unlike most players of his height, Wembanyama is not a lumbering giant who is limited to the paint. He is a versatile and graceful player who can do it all on both ends of the floor.
Wembanyama’s offensive game is remarkable for a player of any size, let alone one of his stature. He has a smooth and reliable jump shot that extends beyond the three-point line, making him a threat from anywhere on the court. He can also handle the ball, pass, and drive to the basket with ease, showing off his agility and coordination. He is a nightmare matchup for any defender, as he can shoot over smaller players and blow by bigger ones. He is also a willing and unselfish teammate, who can create opportunities for others with his vision and passing.
Wembanyama’s defensive game is even more impressive, as he is a dominant force who can protect the rim, switch on the perimeter, and disrupt passing lanes. He has a wingspan of 8 feet 2 inches (2.49 metres) and a standing reach of 10 feet 2 inches (3.10 metres), giving him an incredible advantage in blocking and altering shots. He also has quick feet, lateral quickness, and anticipation, allowing him to stay in front of smaller and faster players. He is a master of timing and positioning, who can read and react to the opponent’s moves. He is a game changer who can single-handedly change the outcome of a possession, a quarter, or a game with his defense.
Wembanyama’s statistics reflect his impact on the game, as he is putting up numbers that have never been seen before in the NBA. Through his first 10 games, he is averaging 19.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 2.4 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game, while shooting 44.7 percent from the field, 29.8 percent from three-point range, and 76.6 percent from the free-throw line. He is the only player in the league to rank in the top 50 in all five major statistical categories, and the only player to average at least 15 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two blocks per game. He is also the only player in NBA history to record at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, five blocks, and five assists in a single game, which he did twice in his first 10 games.
Wembanyama’s performance has earned him praise from fans, media, and fellow players, who have recognized his unique talent and potential. LeBron James, who called him “a generational talent” before the draft, tweeted after Wembanyama’s debut: “The kid is special. The future is bright.” Kevin Durant, who faced Wembanyama in his second game, said after the game: “He’s unbelievable. He’s got everything you want in a player. He’s going to be a problem for a long time.” Gregg Popovich, who coaches Wembanyama on the Spurs, said after Wembanyama’s first double-double: “He’s a joy to coach. He works hard, he listens, he learns, he improves. He’s humble, he’s respectful, he’s mature. He’s a rare breed.”
Wembanyama’s impact has also translated to team success, as he has helped the Spurs turn around their fortunes after a dismal 2022–23 season, when they finished with the worst record in the Western Conference (23–59). With Wembanyama leading the way, the Spurs have improved to 3–8, which is still not impressive, but shows signs of progress and promise. Wembanyama has been instrumental in the Spurs’ three wins, as he averaged 25.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 3.7 blocks, and 1.7 steals in those games, while shooting 50 percent from the field, 40 percent from three-point range, and 81.8 percent from the free-throw line. He has also shown great chemistry and leadership with his teammates, especially with fellow young stars Dejounte Murray, Keldon Johnson, and Lonnie Walker IV.
Wembanyama is only 19 years old, and he is already changing the NBA with his unprecedented combination of size, skill, and athleticism. He is a versatile and graceful player who can do it all on both ends of the floor. He is a game changer who can single-handedly change the outcome of a possession, a quarter, or a game with his offense or defense. He is a rare breed who has earned praise from fans, media, and fellow players, who have recognized his unique talent and potential. He is a joy to coach, who works hard, listens, learns, improves, and leads. He is the future of the NBA, and he is here to stay.
Last updated on April 30, 2026 4:45 am
