Widely regarded as the greatest prospect ever, Victor Wembanyama has been the talk of the basketball world for the past few months. Even before the Draft Lottery took place, Wembanyama was a lock for the #1 pick regardless of the team. Contemplating the move for a long time, the decision to sell the Charlotte Hornets became easier for Michael Jordan once the franchise lost the chance to bag the 1st pick(Wembanyama) of the 2023 Draft. The historic sale resulted in MJ potentially earning as much as $2,100,000,000. After helping Jordan make the decision of selling the franchise, the French phenom has expressed his desire to replicate one of Jordan’s rookie feats.
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With a packed schedule, the 7-foot-4 youngster has had a busy week. From pre-draft commitments to being present at several mandatory interviews, it’s been a hectic few days for Wemby. While his long-term goals are to turn around the Spurs’ fortune, an article from before the Draft revealed the 19-year-old’s plans for his rookie season.
Victor Wembanyama wants to play in every game possible next season
According to sources, the LNB Pro A Most Valuable Player has discussed his short-term vision with San Antonio’s front office. In hopes of keeping his “ironman streak alive”, Wemby wants to play as many games as possible next season. The request was reportedly agreed upon by the franchise. LJ Ellis of Spurs Talk disclosed in his article:
“The most notable request from Wembanyama was that he wants to play in every possible game. The source told me the Spurs responded by telling Wembanyama that the franchise agrees with his vision and will do everything they can to make that happen.”
“The source explained that Wembanyama was very proud of the fact he didn’t miss a game this season. If he wants to keep his ironman streak alive in his rookie season, it sounds like the Spurs won’t get in his way.”
In today’s age, star players voluntarily sit out games for “load management” before the postseason. So taking that into consideration, it’s quite heartening to see Wembanyama’s passion for the sport. If he sticks to his plan, the Frenchman can potentially achieve the same feat Michael Jordan accomplished as a rookie, playing in all 82 games of the season.
Apart from bagging an All-Star rep, His Airness recorded 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists throughout the season to win the Rookie of the Year honor. Spurs fans would be hoping that Wembanyama manages to replicate a similarly successful season.
Wemby had dinner with Spurs legends
The city of San Antonio is doing its best to make Wemby feel at home. The franchise even set up a dinner for the prodigy with some of the most successful personalities in franchise history – Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Manu Ginobili, and Sean Elliot. The #1 pick of the 2023 Draft even posted a photo from the dinner, captioning the tweet, “Couldn’t ask for better role models 🖤”.
Couldn’t ask for better role models 🖤 pic.twitter.com/lcw7cvbeTt
— Wemby (@vicw_32) June 25, 2023
Gaining experience from some of the greatest players of the sport must’ve definitely been insightful. Further, playing under the guidance of Gregg Popovich will be extremely beneficial for Wemby. Coach Pop has been successful in developing several international players into the NBA elite.