Victor Wembanyama compares very favorably to LeBron James at the same juncture of their respective careers.
That’s according to perhaps the world’s foremost expert on the topic, ESPN NBA reporter Brian Windhorst, who has covered James extensively dating back to his high school years in Akron, Ohio.
Windhorst appeared on “Get Up” Wednesday morning, where he provided that analysis.
“Victor Wembanyama: 51 percent shooting, three blocks a game in the preseason. I went back and looked up LeBron’s rookie year preseason numbers. He shot 35 percent. He made two three-pointers the entire preseason his rookie year. Victor makes two a game,” Windhorst said.
“I know they’re very different players. His skill level is vastly advanced to where LeBron’s was at the same age.”
Wembanyama, 19, was selected first overall by the Spurs in the 2023 NBA Draft, and it’s fair to say that expectations for him are through the roof.
Over the weekend, 74-year-old Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich caustically swatted a remark from his friend Steve Kerr about how Wembanyama’s presence has “rejuvenated” him.
“What was I being rejuvenated from?” Popovich asked.
“Was I in a mental institution or was I depressed and curled up in my bedroom or something?”
After the reporter who asked the question said that Kerr, the Golden State Warriors head coach, had made the comment, Popovich laughed, “Steve’s an a–hole.”
Luka Doncic, whose Mavericks face the Spurs in their mutual season opener on Wednesday night, shared tips for Wembanyama.
“My advice is always to have fun with the game,” Doncic said, according to Sports Illustrated. “Obviously, you’re going to have a lot of pressure. He’s probably one of the best, if not the best [prospects] to come into the NBA. But he showed he can play. I don’t think he should be worried about anything.”
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