Victor Wembanyama is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the upcoming 2023 NBA draft. At 7’3″ with guard-like skills, he has drawn comparisons to Kristaps Porzingis and Kevin Durant. Wembanyama’s draft stock has been rising steadily for the past two years. He was named the FIBA Europe Young Player of the Year in 2021 and the LNB Pro A Best Young Player in 2022. He also led France to a silver medal at the 2021 FIBA Under-19 World Cup.
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Wembanyama is a generational talent who has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone. However, his reaction to the Rockets getting the fourth pick in the NBA Draft Lottery should worry Ime Udoka and the rest of Houston’s front office and coaching staff.
Victor Wembanyama seemingly celebrates the Rockets’ drop to #4 in the NBA Draft Lottery
In a video that went viral on social media, Wembanyama was seen celebrating when it was announced that the Rockets had fallen to the fourth spot. He even put his hands on his head in disbelief.
Watch Wemby’s reaction as it is announced that Houston has dropped to #4 in the draft lottery:
Watch Victor
— Andrew Schlecht (@AndrewKSchlecht) May 17, 2023
Overall, it was a comfortable draft lottery night for the French phenom. His team of choice, the San Antonio Spurs, received the #1 pick. The Spurs are the perfect fit for Wembanyama. The team has a long history of success and a well-respected front office. They also have a young core of players that Wembanyama can help develop.
If the Spurs select Victor Wembanyama with the first overall pick, they will be getting a player who has the potential to be a superstar. He is a rare talent who can change the fortunes of a franchise.
The Rockets and Ime Udoka
Wembanyama’s reaction is understandable given the disarray surrounding the Rockets organization.
The Rockets’ struggles are well-documented. The team has been in a state of flux for the past few years. The team is also in the midst of a rebuilding process that could take several years to complete. They have fired two head coaches in the past three seasons and have not made the playoffs since 2018. Wembanyama’s apparent relief at not going to the Rockets could be seen as a sign that he wants to join a team with a more stable foundation.
As for Ime Udoka, his reign is off to the worst possible start. Udoka was suspended by the Boston Celtics for a full season in 2022 for having an inappropriate relationship with a female coworker. This controversy could have a negative impact on the Houston Rockets moving forward.
The Rockets are a young team that is trying to rebuild. They need to attract top talent in order to be successful. Udoka’s controversy could make it more difficult for the Rockets to attract top free agents or trade for high-profile players. This was evidenced by Wemby’s reaction.
In addition, Udoka’s controversy could damage the Rockets’ reputation. Ime Udoka and the rest of the Rockets coaching staff should be worried about Wembanyama’s reaction to the Rockets getting the fourth pick. It is a clear sign that he does not want to play for the team.
The Spurs, on the other hand, should be thrilled that Wembanyama is a potential target. He would be a perfect fit for the team and could help them return to contention.
