Wembanyama's first Spurs season leaves fans hopeful
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Victor Wembanyama celebrates after his last rookie game. Photo: Ronald Cortes via Getty Images
Despite a 22-60 season, one of the worst in the team's history, Spurs fans remain encouraged, buoyed by the promise of Victor Wembanyama.
Why it matters: San Antonio has a palpable excitement when the Spurs are doing well. A successful team and star player can boost any city's morale and economy — and elevate its status as a destination for sports fans.
Driving the news: The 20-year-old Wembanyama finished his rookie season on Friday with an exciting 121-120 win over reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets.
By the numbers: He averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 3.6 blocks per game this season.
- According to The Athletic's Player Efficiency Rating, which measures an athlete's offensive performance, Wemby has a 23.1.
- He's up there with all-time greats Wilt Chamberlain (28.2), Spurs legend David Robinson (26.3) and Michael Jordan (25.8).
- This rookie season is dotted with so many "firsts" and stunning stats, that the popular podcast "No Dunks" had enough content to make a minute-long wrap-up of them, and Air Alamo contributor Ty Jager made a bracket of Wemby's highlights.
What they're saying: Wemby reflected on his first season at a Friday press conference. He recognized the 60 losses but highlighted the fans' confidence that grew as the team finally started to click, winning 7 of the last 11 games.
- "I know it's for the long term and I trust my teammates 100% and I trust the project," he said.
Fun fact: A lot of Wemby's quirks came out as Spurs fans became better acquainted with the star.
- Like that, he maintains a strict hour of reading time every day, when he can't be disturbed.
- Or that he uses interesting drills to prevent ankle injuries.
Flashback: When the Spurs won the NBA lottery last May, San Antonio celebrated like it was 1999. That excitement persisted despite a tough season.
- Fans shared their favorite Wemby moments on X, keeping the spirit alive despite the losses.
- Most reactions centered on his blocks against fellow rookie Chet Holmgren and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- San Antonio Sports Star host Jason Minnix tells Axios that Wemby's season had many "'wow' moments like we used to get from Manu Ginobili."
Between the lines: It's not just Spurs fans who have been excited by Wemby's season. Other NBA players are too.
- Respected ESPN writer Brian Windhorst recently predicted that big-name players will want to join Wemby, which could transform the once small-market team into a top destination for star talent.
What's next: Minnix says he's looking forward to seeing what offseason moves the Spurs make to support Wemby.
- "I know Pop has said the organization won't skip steps, but this does not need to be a slow rebuild. Victor is ready to take over the league," he says.
What we're watching: Wemby is in the running for two end-of-season awards: Defensive Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year.
- The announcements should come any day now.