DeMarcus Cousins recently made waves with a bold declaration about Victor Wembanyama on Run It Back TV, claiming:
“Well, I already see it, and I felt like we were having this conversation before he played his first game, just to see the talent, the height, the build. This is something we’ve never seen before in this sport. And this kid has it all.”
“He can literally do whatever he wants on the basketball court. So obviously the talent is there, the gift is there. It’s just about staying healthy and staying consistent throughout his career.”
“But there’s no doubt in my mind, he’ll go down as one of the greatest. It’s not even an argument. At minimum, he’ll be the greatest defensive player of all time. Like, minimum. I’m calling that now, the greatest. So the sky’s the limit for this kid.”
While this statement might seem audacious, Wembanyama’s early career achievements and impact on both ends of the floor suggest Cousins’ prediction might not be far-fetched.
After a historic rookie season, Wembanyama has elevated his game in his sophomore campaign. The 7-foot-4 phenom is averaging 25.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.9 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 48.3% from the field and 35.4% from beyond the arc. He’s a lock for the All-Star Game, a likely All-NBA selection, and the frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year. These accolades only underscore his dominance on both ends of the court.
Defensively, Wembanyama’s numbers are unprecedented. His 3.9 blocks per game not only lead the league but also rank as the highest block average in NBA history at this stage of a career. He’s already amassed more blocks than legends like Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’Neal, Tim Duncan, and Dikembe Mutombo had at similar points in their careers. His defensive presence has transformed the San Antonio Spurs, allowing them to stay competitive despite a young roster.
While Wembanyama’s defense garners headlines, his offensive game has also been remarkable. The 21-year-old has already hit 225 three-pointers in his first 100 games, outpacing Stephen Curry, James Harden, and Ray Allen—the NBA’s all-time leaders in three-pointers made. His ability to shoot from deep while operating as a dominant interior force is unheard of for a 7-foot-4 player.
Through 100 games, Wembanyama’s offensive output places him in elite company. With 2,278 career points, he’s one of only seven players in the last 45 years to reach that milestone, joining Michael Jordan, Zion Williamson, David Robinson, Shaquille O’Neal, Luka Doncic, and Terry Cummings. His 22.7 points per game at this stage of his career is on par with Kevin Durant and ahead of most 21-year-olds in league history.
What sets Wembanyama apart isn’t just his production but how he achieves it. As a 7-foot-4 center with guard-like skills, he’s redefining what’s possible for a big man in the modern NBA. His ability to protect the rim while stretching the floor offensively makes him an unparalleled weapon.
At just 21 years old, Wembanyama has already surpassed statistical milestones that took legends years to achieve. He’s the first player since Shaquille O’Neal to average at least 20 points and 10 rebounds before turning 21. His 366 blocks in 100 games trail only Manute Bol (425) and David Robinson (383) in league history. And his 225 three-pointers highlight a level of versatility that sets him apart even from modern stars.
DeMarcus Cousins’ prediction might seem hyperbolic to some, but the numbers and impact Wembanyama has already demonstrated suggest it’s more than plausible. If Wembanyama stays healthy and consistent, he’s on a trajectory not only to become the greatest defensive player of all time but to redefine the possibilities of what a basketball player can be.
For now, the NBA world is left marveling at a 7-foot-4 superstar who can dominate the paint, shoot threes, and alter games like no one before him.
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