Former NBA champion makes strong Victor Wembanyama claim

San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports

Former NBA champion makes strong claim regarding Victor Wembanyama

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 10/5/23

Victor Wembanyama is the hottest NBA prospect since LeBron James. The versatile rookie is expected to develop into a generational talent, but he's unlikely to make a gargantuan impact in his debut season. Unlike James, Wembanyama isn't versed in the American game. He has spent his young career playing in France.

Still, some fans believe Wembanyama could make an All-Star team as a rookie. However, the San Antonio Spurs reside in a stacked Western Conference, where even established stars struggle to consistently be named as All-Stars.

According to former NBA champion Stephen Jackson, who was speaking on a recent episode of "KG Certified," there is a chance Wembanyama will make the All-Star team this season. However, it won't be based on talent.

"It's too many players that he's not better than," Jackson said. "But, if he make it, he gonna make it not because of the way he's playing. He's gonna make it because of business."

“It’s too many players in the western conference that he’s (Wemby) not better than. But if he makes it, he’s going to make it because of business.” - Stephen Jackson@datrillstak5 on @paulpierce34 take that Wemby will make All-Star his rookie year… what y’all think? … pic.twitter.com/83Vj1y4w3R
— Kevin Garnett (@KevinGarnett5KG) October 5, 2023

Wembanyama's rookie season will be about adjusting to the increased talent level in the NBA. He will need to adapt to playing against bigger, stronger, more explosive opponents. The level of athleticism in the NBA is vastly higher than what Wembanyama has been subjected to so far.

There will also be some slightly different rules, which could take the rookie big man some time to become accustomed to.

Of course, there will be games where Webanyama dominates. His size, scoring and rim protection will ensure he's a threat for the Spurs. Consistency is a luxury reserved for the highest level of star players, though. It's what separates the starters from the All-Stars.

Wembanyama undoubtedly has a bright future in the NBA. There are multiple All-Star selections in his future. Yet the upcoming season is too soon. Even if there's a business upside, it adds more pressure onto his young shoulders.

Rather than focusing on All-Star weekend, Wembanyama should have the "Rookie of the Year" award in his sights. That's a much more reasonable and logical goal.

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