“It’s the New Era”: Gilbert Arenas ‘Tips His Hat’ to Gregg Popovich For Not Trying to Mould Victor Wembanyama to His Preferences

Victor Wembanyama was already a sensation before he was drafted as the number-one pick by the San Antonio Spurs. After the pick, people have been waiting to see a glimpse of the young prospect. And they were not disappointed. Wembanyma awakened the NBA world with his incredible talent in the four preseason games he played. If there was ever a doubt, it’s safe to say the young French player has quashed them.

The NBA world is currently buzzing with the new possibilities the 19-year-old brings to the league’s future. Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas also took to his podcast – ‘Gil’s Arena’ to rave about the Spurs rookie. While doing so, he also gave flowers to coach Gregg Popovich for not trying to mold the player into his system. Instead, Popovich has let the system mold itself according to this generational talent.

Gilbert Arenas praises Victor Wembanyama and Gregg Popovich

In the latest episode of ‘Gil’s Arena’, co-host Gilbert Arenas took the opportunity to appreciate Victor Wembanyama. By referring to the Frenhmen as a generational talent, the three-time NBA All-Star said he has never seen anything like him before. He then went on to highlight the coaching of Gregg Popovich and recognized his greatness as well. Here is what he said:

“You gotta give Pop his credit. You have a generational talent.You have something you have never seen before. There is only a handful of coaches who can understand what this is. Now, this let’s us know how different Pop is. You have something you have never seen. It’s the new basketball. It’s the new era! And, you are not trying to make him fit your style.”

Gilbert Arenas gives Gregg Popovich credit for not trying to change Wemby.

“You’re not trying to make him fit YOUR style, of what YOU are use to.”

“You don’t see him trying to correct him…You don’t see him trying to make him do something he’s not.”#GilsArenaShow🏟️ pic.twitter.com/m4wOpJuM2c

— Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) October 23, 2023

Often, coaches are guilty of forcing a particular style or technique on a player, which can prove counter-productive. However, in the case of Popovich, he is happy to take a backseat and observe the rookie’s talents. He isn’t trying to alter Wemby’s style or correct what he believes to be wrong. Instead, he is adapting to the new generation of basketball. This will help him design a system that works best with the future superstar while keeping his fundamentals strong.

Arenas refers to Wembanyama as a 7ft 6inch Kevin Durant

Over the past few months, analysts have attempted to draw many parallels to Victor Wembanyama’s game. There hasn’t been anyone like him in the history of the league. A 7ft 4inch guard who can shoot the ball from a distance, has handles like a point guard, and can block shots like a center – that’s a rare combination. Gilbert Arenas’ also shared his opinion while comparing him to Kevin Durant. Here is what he said:

“The skillset is already there. He has the skill. It’s like a 7ft 6inch Kevin Durant-type. He just needs to polish it up, but that takes years.”

Well, we can see why Gilbert Arenas’ has chosen Kevin Durant to draw a parallel. Despite his height, he is one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA. Unlike other seven-foot players, who find it difficult to shoot at that height, the two-time NBA champion makes it look easy. Also, he can dribble the ball like a guard and can crossover the best defenders in the league.

Wembanyama’s jump shot is as smooth as Durant’s. He may not have the same efficiency or may need to improve his shot selection, but as Arenas’ mentioned, polishing will take experience. The rookie is also similar when it comes to dribbling the ball and shaking defenders. Combine that with an ability to block shots, and you have a unicorn.