San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is viewed as one of the most gifted big men in the NBA. Coming off an impressive sophomore campaign, the 21-year-old boasts a high ceiling. With particular reference to his defensive ability, however, the upcoming season could be promising.
In the short span between his rookie and sophomore campaigns, the French center showed significant growth across every aspect of the game. Already possessing unique physical tools, athleticism, and agility, Wembanyama has only developed his overall versatility, resulting in his first All-Star selection last season.
For the 2024-25 campaign, the 21-year-old averaged 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 47.6% from the field and 35.2% from three.
Given how effective he has been on the offensive end, several consider the big man one of the most talented young players in the league. But when additionally factoring in his defensive impact, the Spurs center finds himself mentioned alongside revered company.
In his brief NBA career spanning two years, Victor Wembanyama has led the league in blocked shots two years running. After posting 3.6 blocks per game in his rookie season, the Spurs center only improved upon his rim protection figures by averaging 3.8 blocks per game in his sophomore season.
With a total of 176 blocks in 46 games played last year, he is certainly among the premier shot-blocking big men in the league.
While such a performance would have inherently implied candidacy for the Defensive Player of the Year award, this was not the case for the Spurs center.
After being diagnosed with a blood clot in his shoulder in February this year, Victor Wembanyama was sidelined for the remainder of the season. Considering that players must appear in a minimum of 65 games to become eligible for any awards, the 21-year-old found himself out of the running.
While this could be viewed as disappointing, it sets up an interesting storyline for the upcoming season.
Given how San Antonio has approached roster construction this offseason, it is clear that the team is building for something greater with Wembanyama at the forefront. After recuperating over the summer, along with some intensive training, Victor Wembanyama could also be primed for a breakout year with the Spurs.
Does this imply that he could contend for DPOY in the upcoming season?
Absolutely.
It is important to note that the competition to win it will be stiff. Along with reigning DPOY Evan Mobley, who has shown development this summer, and the likes of other candidates from last season, such as Dyson Daniels, the league is likely to see several new faces enter the race.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Lu Dort established himself as an elite defensive presence last season. Similarly, younger players like Chet Holmgren and Amen Thompson also showcased the potential to develop into elite defensive players.
In this regard, Victor Wembanyama possesses all the necessary tools to help him establish himself as the best defensive player in the league. The big man already boasts incredible size and agility. To complement his natural gifts, the 21-year-old has unreal instincts, allowing him to effectively shut down the painted area.
When considering his performance in his rookie season, Victor Wembanyama appeared in 71 games and earned a spot in the NBA’s All-Defensive team, while also finishing second in voting for the DPOY award.
The greatest challenge for the young center will be remaining healthy. Given the nature of his illness, the Spurs’ priority will be to ensure his availability for most of the season.
With players such as Jeremy Sochan and Luke Kornet on the roster, the Spurs could safely look to monitor his minutes. But given his role as a starter, along with San Antonio’s thin frontcourt, there is a greater likelihood for Victor Wembanyama to log significant minutes, as the Spurs mount a playoff push with their new core.
