The ability of the NBA’s future star Victor Wembanyama to take control of the NBA is unquestionable. In a recent survey by ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, 12 out of 18 NBA coaches, scouts, and executives predict the San Antonio Spurs’ 7’4″ star will be the top player in the league in five years. This puts Wembanyama in front of other up-and-coming talents such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Dončić, who both got two votes, as well as Anthony Edwards and Nikola Jokić, who each received one vote.
A Dominant Rookie Campaign
Wembanyama, who was selected first overall in the 2023 NBA draft, had a quick impact. He received the NBA Rookie of the Year accolade without any dissent and came in second place in the Defensive Player of the Year competition. Although the Spurs had a 22-60 record, Wembanyama showed his immense potential by averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and leading the league with 3.6 blocks per game.
A Star on the International Stage
Wembanyama’s skill goes beyond just the NBA. He was only 20 when he almost guided France to a gold medal in Olympic basketball, with 26 points in the final game against Team USA. Even though France did not succeed, Wembanyama’s showing on the global level strengthened his position as a potential superstar.
A Bright Future Ahead
Even though other players in the poll have accomplished major feats like Gilgeous-Alexander finishing as MVP runner-up, Dončić reaching the Finals, Edwards winning an Olympic gold, and Jokić earning multiple MVPs, Wembanyama is notable for his young age and potential for development. At the age of 20, there are endless possibilities for his future, with his potential appearing to have no bounds as he continues to grow.
With NBA changing and iconic players like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry getting closer to retirement, Victor Wembanyama and his contemporaries are ready to guide the league into its upcoming phase and become a star of NBA.
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