Almost every time a prospect comes over to the NBA from Europe, the same questions tend to be asked. The talk is always about whether the player can deal with the physicality of the game and the same concerns were raised about Victor Wembanyama.
Well, when the Frenchman was asked about the difference in the game in the U.S. as compared to the French League and Euroleague that he played in, he stated it is less physical in America.
“First of all, the court is more open (here),” Wembanyama said. “It’s going fast, but it’s less physical. I get fouled a lot, but not as much. Nothing to compare. Here, players are just flying. Out there, it’s more on the ground, pushing on the ground, big box-outs. Here, it’s great athletes, the best in the world. Way more talent. But I like this better, though.”
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The game in the U.S. has certainly become a whole lot more about finesse than brute strength and physicality. There are of course certain teams and players that play a physical brand of basketball, like Giannis Antetokounmpo for example, but there aren’t a whole lot of them around.
That feeling that the game is less physical also perhaps adds to the belief in the Wembanyama camp that he doesn’t need to bulk up. His agent Bouna Ndiaye made it clear that they will fight to not put weight on his body. Ndiaye believes that weight on Wembanyama’s body would be a huge mistake and added that they just need to focus on strength and the core.
Kenny Smith Believes Victor Wembanyama Will Win MVP By His 4th Season
Considering the incredible hype, Wembanyama’s Summer League debut ended up being a disappointment for many. The Frenchman had 9 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 5 blocks while shooting just 2/13 from the field against the Charlotte Hornets.
He made amends for it with a fine display in his second game against the Portland Trail Blazers though, as he racked up 27 points, 12 rebounds, 3 blocks, and a steal on 9-14 shooting from the field. After that second showing, Kenny Smith stated that Wembanyama will be the MVP by his fourth season.
Smith isn’t alone in thinking along those lines. Adrian Wojnarowski had reported that many executives think the Frenchman could be the best player in the league on both ends of the court by his third or fourth year.
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