Title: Victor Wembanyama Shines in NBA Summer League Game for the San Antonio Spurs
LAS VEGAS — Victor Wembanyama, the highly anticipated and talented 19-year-old rookie, displayed his potential once again in his second NBA Summer League game for the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday. Wembanyama led his team with an impressive double-double performance, scoring 27 points and grabbing 12 rebounds in just 27 minutes of play.
Despite the Summer League being less intense compared to the regular NBA season, Wembanyama showcased his skills and demonstrated that he is ready to make an impact when the real season begins in October. San Antonio Spurs summer coach Matt Nielsen praised Wembanyama’s talent, resilience, and his willingness to improve in the specific areas they discussed.
In the Spurs’ 85-80 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers’ summer team, Wembanyama exhibited his versatility by adding three blocks to his stat line. He shot an impressive 9-of-14 from the field and made a crucial 3-pointer late in the game, bringing the Spurs within a point and garnering thunderous applause from the eager crowd.
Wembanyama’s performance was a significant improvement from his somewhat underwhelming debut on Friday, where he struggled to find his rhythm and missed 13 of 15 shots. However, he attributed his progress to becoming more comfortable with himself, his body, and the court, as he only had two practices and one game under his belt prior to Sunday’s performance.
The 7-foot-4 Frenchman displayed better movement on the court, shedding some of the rust from his recent European pro season. He showcased improved touch near the basket, drew fouls resulting in 12 successful free throws, and even knocked down a couple of jumpers. Wembanyama’s shot-blocking ability remained a deterrent for opponents driving to the basket, further highlighting his defensive prowess.
However, the talented rookie faces challenges in maintaining possession when faced with physically stronger opponents and in staying sturdy upon contact. These are areas that are expected to improve as he continues to develop and grow into his lengthy frame.
Wembanyama’s potential on offense was evident during his nine-point outburst in the second quarter of Sunday’s game. He impressed the crowd with a nifty floating jump shot and two electrifying dunks that generated a palpable buzz throughout the arena. In the fourth quarter, he exploded for 10 points, showcasing his shooting range with two 3-pointers, a hook shot, and a crafty spin move finished off the glass.
Despite these impressive displays, Wembanyama was also reminded of his room for improvement when he airballed a wide-open 3-pointer from the top of the key. Last season, he shot just .275 from beyond the arc in the French pro league, highlighting an area he needs to work on.
The anticipated matchup between Wembanyama and the Blazers’ No. 3 pick, Scoot Henderson, who both entered the draft with significant hype, did not come to fruition as Henderson sustained a shoulder injury in his debut and was ruled out for Sunday’s game.
Looking ahead, the San Antonio Spurs are set to face the Washington Wizards on Tuesday in their next Summer League game. It is anticipated that Wembanyama’s summer league participation will be cut short before the conclusion of the schedule.
When asked about his future plans, Wembanyama expressed his willingness to listen to Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and make any necessary sacrifices for the team.
As basketball enthusiasts eagerly wait for Wembanyama’s official rookie season, the young talent remains focused on his growth, development, and contributing to the San Antonio Spurs’ success.