The No. 1 pick from 2023, Victor Wembanyama, keeps doing amazing things every week. In a recent game, the San Antonio Spurs rookie played a crucial role in their 132-118 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Wembanyama scored 28 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, made seven assists, blocked five shots, and stole the ball twice. He also made five three-pointers, outshining another top rookie, Chet Holmgren. According to the NBA, he's the first player ever to achieve 25+ points, 10+ rebounds, 5+ assists, 5+ blocks, and 5+ threes in a single game. Wembanyama also finished February as the only NBA player to average two steals, two three-pointers, and three blocks per game for a month.
This win was significant for the Spurs, who are rebuilding and currently last in the Western Conference with a record of 12-48. For Wembanyama, it was even sweeter because he's focused on making history in games his team wins. He emphasized the mental aspect of the game, citing advice from Kobe Bryant about the importance of big shots in winning games.
This victory was a big surprise for Wembanyama and the Spurs, as they defeated a much higher-ranked team. The Thunder, sitting at second place in the West with a record of 41-17, were considered a tough opponent.
As the Thunder staged a comeback in the fourth quarter, the Spurs, considered underdogs, had to defend their lead. In the crucial moments of the final period, Wembanyama stepped up, making some important three-pointers to extend his team's lead.
The game also showcased what many believe will be one of the NBA's top player rivalries in the coming years. Wembanyama was up against OKC center Holmgren, who, despite being drafted second overall in 2022, is technically a rookie due to missing last season because of injury.
Both players represent a new type of NBA big man, blending traditional inside play with perimeter skills. Fans sometimes call them 'unicorns' because of their rare combination of abilities.
Holmgren had a strong performance himself, scoring 23 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and making five assists. However, Wembanyama had the final say, blocking one of Holmgren's shots in the last two minutes to secure the win for the Spurs.
Holmgren expressed disappointment about the unexpected loss after the game, acknowledging that in the NBA, any team can beat another on any given night. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder led the game with 31 points, while Devin Vassell matched Wembanyama's 28-point performance for the Spurs.
