Last year, Victor Wembanyama was only counted among the NBA’s top 50 players. After a season showing what he’s made of, the San Antonio Spurs sophomore is now closer to the top 10 than most people realize.
The 2024-25 season is a crucial one for the Spurs, centered around the immense potential of Wembanyama. After a challenging previous season with a 22-60 record, the Spurs are eager to turn things around. The addition of veteran point guard Chris Paul, combined with the big man’s unique skill set, has fans hopeful for a more competitive season.
The French star had an impressive final month last season, averaging 24.1 points, 12.1 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 4.4 blocks, showcasing his all-around talent. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court makes him a centerpiece for the Spurs’ strategy moving forward. Pairing him with experienced players like Paul and promising young talents could create a potent mix capable of challenging for a play-in playoff spot.
The Spurs aim to improve their offensive efficiency, which ranked 26th in the league last season with a rating of 109.3. Integrating Paul into the lineup will be key to enhancing ball movement and creating scoring opportunities. Additionally, Devin Vassell’s recovery from injury will be closely monitored, as his contributions could significantly impact the team’s performance.
With Wembanyama drawing national attention, the Spurs are scheduled for several high-profile games, including a Christmas Day matchup. The upcoming season presents a unique opportunity for the Spurs to establish themselves as a rising force in the league. If he continues to evolve and the team finds its rhythm, a return to playoff contention could happen sooner than anticipated, marking a significant milestone in the franchise’s rebuilding journey.
ESPN’s NBA Player Rankings See San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama Crack the Top 15
While Wembanyama made a massive leap, he’s only one spot shy away from the top 10. This can be seen in ESPN’s latest NBA rankings ahead of the upcoming season.
11. Victor Wembanyama, C, San Antonio Spurs
2023 NBA Rank: 47
With a year of experience under his belt, the No. 1 pick from 2023 is coming for No. 1 on this list. The unanimous 2023-24 Rookie of the Year put together a historic first season in the NBA, producing numbers that compared favorably to Spurs Hall of Fame big men David Robinson and Tim Duncan.
This season Wemby will see a lot of lob dunk opportunities now that he’s paired with future Hall of Fame point guard Chris Paul. Wembanyama should make a run at surpassing the 254 blocks he notched last season on the way to earning his first NBA All-Star nod, while falling squarely into the MVP conversation.
Wembanyama has made a significant leap in ESPN’s Top 100 rankings, now positioned at number 11. Following a remarkable rookie season where he averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and an impressive 3.6 blocks per game, the big man has solidified his status as a rising star.
His exceptional skills, combined with the addition of veteran Chris Paul, promise to elevate his performance further. As expectations mount, Wembanyama is poised to make a strong case for an All-Star nod and potentially challenge for MVP honors, marking a bright future for the Spurs.
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