Victor Wembanyama is still revered in the United States, where several former players believe the French center is now considered the best basketball player in the world. Even more…
As the reigning champion Thunder easily qualified for the Western Conference finals by overpowering both the Suns and the Lakers with the same score (4-0), their opponent could be determined on Friday night. The Spurs have taken the lead against the Wolves (3-2), needing just one more win for a highly anticipated showdown with OKC.
This success can be attributed in large part to Victor Wembanyama. Expelled for a nasty elbow in the previous game, which did not result in a suspension or even a fine, the French prodigy redeemed himself on Tuesday, tallying 27 points, 17 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks in the 126-97 victory over the Texans. Another huge performance for “Wemby” that left his French teammate Rudy Gobert in awe and impressed opponents like Anthony Edwards, as well as observers.
Former NBA players are also full of praise for the player who became the first Frenchman to be chosen as the number 1 pick in the 2023 draft. “Let me say it outright: Wemby is the best player in the NBA. No doubt about it. I have never seen such talent in my whole life. He’s a true alien,” stated former Rocket Patrick Beverley, now with PAOK Salonique, on his podcast.
“The most complete player in history”
Even more highly regarded, Paul Pierce, NBA champion in 2008 with the Celtics, is also in awe of the phenomenon. “He is the most complete player we have ever seen on the court,” he said on the No Fouls Given podcast. “We can talk about Bron (LeBron James), Jordan, Joker (Nikola Jokic), but he is the most complete player in the history of basketball. His impact on defense is incredible, and when he goes on the attack, he scores every possible basket.”
Named the best defender of the year, Wembanyama may not be the MVP of the regular season, as the award is expected to go to Jokic or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but he could win several if he continues at this pace. And, dare to dream, he might even claim the Finals MVP if San Antonio goes all the way…
