Victor Wembanyama: A Star in the Making or the Next All-Time Great?
The world of basketball is no stranger to prodigies, but Victor Wembanyama’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. The towering 7’4” Frenchman, after clinching the 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year award, has sparked discussions about his potential to join the ranks of the all-time greats. His unique combination of height, skills, and court vision has left many wondering whether his debut season is just the beginning of a legendary career.
But what makes Wembanyama’s rookie campaign stand out, and does it point to a future where he could be mentioned in the same breath as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Let’s break down his incredible first year, the unique qualities that set him apart, and whether his trajectory could lead him to become one of the greatest players in NBA history.
A Dominant Rookie Year
Victor Wembanyama’s rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs was not just good—it was transformative. He entered the NBA with unprecedented expectations, largely due to his otherworldly performances in Europe and his widely publicized skill set that seemed to defy the limitations of his height. For a player standing well over seven feet tall, he displayed an almost guard-like agility, exceptional ball-handling, and shooting prowess from beyond the arc, all while being a shot-blocking nightmare on defense.
Wembanyama quickly became the centerpiece of the Spurs’ offense, averaging close to a double-double throughout the season. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, while also anchoring the defense with his towering presence, was reminiscent of the modern NBA’s growing need for versatile big men. His scoring, often above 20 points per game, came from everywhere: post-ups, mid-range jumpers, and even fast-break dunks. More importantly, he played with the poise of a veteran, adapting to defensive schemes and playing under pressure with a calmness that belied his age.
Winning Rookie of the Year was a crowning achievement, but it only hinted at the impact he could have moving forward. Unlike many other rookie sensations who flame out under the spotlight, Wembanyama’s skillset seems perfectly suited for long-term success in the ever-evolving NBA.
The Skill Set of a Unicorn
One of the biggest factors that could elevate Wembanyama to all-time great status is his unique skill set. In recent years, the NBA has seen the emergence of players who break traditional molds—“unicorns,” as they’re often called. Players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić have dominated by combining size and guard-like abilities. But even among unicorns, Wembanyama is a rare breed.
His three-point shooting, particularly for someone of his height, gives his team an invaluable floor-spacer. Defenders are forced to come out to the perimeter to guard him, which then opens up driving lanes for teammates. On defense, his wingspan of nearly 8 feet allows him to contest shots that few players could dream of reaching. His ability to block shots, combined with his lateral quickness, means he can switch onto smaller guards while still protecting the paint.
At just 20 years old, Wembanyama already displays an advanced basketball IQ. His court vision and passing ability—particularly in transition—set him apart from other big men. He’s not just a finisher; he can be a playmaker, someone who creates opportunities for others, which could eventually put him in the conversation as one of the best all-around players in the game.
Learning from Legends
Another critical aspect of Wembanyama’s growth is his willingness to learn from NBA legends. Throughout his rookie season, he was often seen working closely with his coach, Gregg Popovich, and had several one-on-one sessions with former Spurs stars like Tim Duncan and David Robinson. Their influence and guidance have undoubtedly helped him refine his game, particularly on the defensive end, where he has shown flashes of Duncan’s trademark positioning and anticipation.
Popovich has been vocal in his praise for Wembanyama’s work ethic and mental toughness, both key ingredients for sustaining greatness. If Wembanyama continues to absorb lessons from these NBA giants, he will be well-positioned to evolve his game as the league changes. After all, many of the all-time greats, including LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, emphasized the importance of constantly adapting their games, a trait that has extended their dominance for years.
The Longevity Factor
One of the primary concerns for a player of Wembanyama’s size is his longevity. Historically, big men who stand over seven feet have had difficulty staying healthy throughout their careers. Injuries to knees, feet, and backs have plagued players like Yao Ming, Bill Walton, and Greg Oden, cutting short their potentially legendary careers.
However, Wembanyama’s camp has been proactive in addressing these concerns. His training regimen emphasizes flexibility, strength conditioning, and injury prevention, all designed to help him avoid the pitfalls that have derailed other towering stars. If he can remain healthy—and that’s a big “if”—Wembanyama’s potential seems limitless. He has the tools, both physically and mentally, to dominate for over a decade.
The Competition Factor
To become an all-time great, it’s not enough to simply put up numbers. Players who reach legendary status often do so by competing—and winning—against the best. In the coming years, Wembanyama will need to prove that he can not only excel during the regular season but also rise to the occasion in the playoffs. Championships, Finals MVPs, and deep playoff runs are what separate great players from the truly iconic ones.
With players like Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jayson Tatum in their prime, Wembanyama will face stiff competition for years to come. His ability to lead the Spurs in battles against these established stars, particularly in the postseason, will be a significant factor in determining his legacy.
Can He Be an All-Time Great?
Wembanyama’s rookie season has undoubtedly placed him on a fast track to stardom, but becoming an all-time great is a long and difficult journey. He has the skill set, the work ethic, and the right team around him to reach the pinnacle of the sport. However, history has shown us that the road to greatness is fraught with challenges, particularly for players of his size.
If Wembanyama can stay healthy, continue developing his game, and ultimately lead the Spurs to championships, there’s no reason why he can’t be mentioned alongside the likes of Jordan, LeBron, and Kareem. The 2024 Rookie of the Year may just be scratching the surface of his potential, but if his debut season is any indication, the NBA may be witnessing the birth of a new all-time great.