Victor Wembanyama thrilled the crowd on his return from a rodeo trip, exclaiming, “I missed this” as chants of “Wemby” filled the Frost Bank Center. His impressive performance, including a crucial blocked shot and two late 3-pointers, left fans in awe and solidified his place as a top contender for the Kia NBA Rookie of the Year award. The game against Oklahoma City marked the third clash between Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, with Wembanyama leading the way with 28 points, 13 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 blocks, and 2 steals.
The matchup between these young Thin Towers was the most exciting in the series, with both players showcasing their unique talents on the court. Holmgren started strong, scoring 19 points in the first half, while Wembanyama proved to be a defensive force with three blocks and a steal. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with San Antonio ultimately snapping Oklahoma City’s win streak.
The rivalry between Wembanyama and Holmgren has been historic, with both players making waves in their rookie season. Wembanyama’s ability to protect the rim and score from beyond the arc has set him apart, while Holmgren has impressed with his versatility and scoring prowess. The upcoming matchup between these two promising rookies is highly anticipated, but the Spurs may prioritize rest and player health as the season winds down.
Coach Gregg Popovich has highlighted the importance of Wembanyama cutting down on turnovers to improve his game, and the rookie showed progress in the game against Oklahoma City. As the season progresses, both Wembanyama and Holmgren continue to face tough challenges and prove their worth on the court.
In a week filled with battles against top talent, Wembanyama and Holmgren have shown that they are ready to compete at the highest level. With their skills and determination, these young bigs are poised to make a lasting impact on the NBA.