The 2023 NBA Draft is merely six days away and fans couldn’t be more excited to see which youngster their team picks. While there has been a lot of speculation as to who will be the #2 pick–Scoot Henderson or Brandon Miller, Victor Wembanyama is a lock at #1. The most hyped prospect since LeBron James, Wembanyama is expected to change the San Antonio Spurs’ fortunes. A contract like we’ve never seen before, the French phenom is projected to sign a four-year, $49.4 million rookie contract in the coming weeks, according to Spotrac. As the entire basketball community eagerly waits to see the 7’4 sensation set foot on the NBA hardwood, the youngster recently revealed his post-draft plans.
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Despite being the unanimous #1 pick of the draft, Wemby was the last top prospect still playing organized basketball until very recently. Representing the Metropolitans 92, the LNB Pro A MVP led his team to the Finals. With the big man averaging 16.3 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in the ultimate series against Monaco, the Levallois-Perret side ended up getting swept. Following his final game for the French franchise, Wemby revealed his post-draft plans while interacting with a few players.
Victor Wembanyama hints at playing in the NBA Summer League
After the conclusion of the LNB Pro A season, Victor Wembanyama plans on representing his French national team at the FIBA World Cup later in the summer. As a result, several reports have suggested that the projected #1 pick will not be participating in the Summer League.
However, after Game 3 of the Mets 92-Monaco series, the soon-to-be Spurs rookie put an end to all speculations. When asked whether he would play in the Summer League, the prodigy replied “a little bit”.
Have a look at the tweet posted by BallisLife that shows the conversation between Wembanyama and a Monaco player.
Wemby plays his final game in France before the NBA Draft and says he’ll play “a little bit” in the Summer League. pic.twitter.com/oGyTqNaebX
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) June 17, 2023
As much as we would love to see Wemby suit up in the Summer League, there is no necessity for him to do so. Even though he’d benefit from matching up against guys from his draft class, the Spurs wouldn’t want to risk their franchise player getting injured before the season starts.
NBA superstars on Wembanyama
Apart from boosting a franchise’s net worth, Wembanyama is also expected to instantly find success as he steps on the hardwood. Ever since his display during the two-game exhibition clash against the G-League Ignite, Wembanyama has been receiving high praise from the superstars of the league. LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, among many others, have revealed being in awe of the talent he possesses.
Even Skip Bayless, who has become a household name for being a harsh critic, has spoken highly of Wembanyama. The pressure is immense and the expectations are endless for the teenager to perform. Wemby needs to flourish from the moment he sets foot on the court. If not, naysayers won’t take long to dub him overrated.
