San Antonio Spurs super prospect Victor Wembanyama is the rare teenager that enters the NBA after having already played professional basketball, and it seems he believes he dealt with a more physical style of play in Europe than what he expects to receive in the world’s top league.
While the biggest stories in the NBA this summer have been on some of the notable signings in free agency, and the future of unhappy superstars Damian Lillard and James Harden, Victor Wembanyama has garnered a solid share of the headlines.
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Despite not having played an official game in the league yet, the hype around the French phenom is unreal. And it is understandable since the 7-foot-4 forward has a wildly potential-rich game that includes strong ball handling, rim protection, and three-point shooting. However, one of the knocks on Wembanyama heading into his first season is his very slight frame.
The rookie big man weighs just over 200 pounds, which is a shocking number to some considering his size. But unlike NBA predecessors with a similar build, he does not plan to put on a bunch of weight to combat the physical play some expect him to get at the next level. And it seems part of the reason why might be because he thinks he received more physical challenges in Europe than he will soon get in the NBA.
Victor Wembanyama says NBA less physical than Europe
Following his second appearance in this year’s Summer League, the new San Antonio Spurs star had some interesting things to say about how tough the play in the league is based on his limited experience.
“First of all, the court is more open [here]. 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.”
– Victor Wembanyama
Obviously, Victor Wembanyama hasn’t had much NBA action and did not play against the normal competition he will face in his career during his two games for the Spurs in Summer League. Nevertheless, all of his preparation before being drafted was to prepare him for the NBA, including having teammates in France that played in the league. So he has a very good idea of the physicality level in today’s game.
His comments will likely open the door for some interesting moments as he makes his way through his rookie season if he ends up getting pushed around or injured.