The Spurs are pulling out wins in hard-fought games they would have lost last season. They've grown up, and it's manifesting as success on the court. But it's not always sunshine and roses for the Silver and Black, as their star faces the most intense defensive schemes he's seen in his young career. The result has been lower-scoring games than what he began the season with, and that's a compliment.
More than ever before, opponents have made one thing clear: they're not going to let Wemby dominate them in the paint. So, they're blitzing him with double teams early, trying to bait him into turnovers or ill-advised jump shots. It's worked to a degree, but he's started to figure it out, and he's doing it without De'Aaron Fox. When Swipa returns, it'll be a different ball game, and Vic knows it.
Wembanyama when asked if the he believes De’Aaron Fox can make defenses pay for how they’re guarding him.
“Of course.”
— Jah (@JahlilWill) November 8, 2025
The Silver and Black's franchise superstar made a point to mention that they already have ways to counter the coverages they're seeing. However, he also acknowledged, with a smile, how special Fox is as an individual player. They need him if they're going to perennially shock the NBA.
The Spurs' depth has made some forget what Fox's strengths are
D. Fox is not just some guy who runs really fast; he's a heady hooper who knows how to maneuver through traffic, finish among the trees, and manipulate defenses to his will. But as special as he is as a scorer, he's still a real point guard. The Spurs have really had to grind out more offensive possessions than they should in the half-court, making scoring harder than it should be.
Fortunately, they're good enough to do that and win games. Their defense gives them extra chances to figure it out, too. But there is another level to this team, and if you're watching every game, you've likely yelled at your TV, begging for guys to throw the ball when he calls for it. It's not happening as often as it should, and that's because there are no real point guards on the floor.
The guys are so worried about turning the ball over in those moments, they almost refuse to make that pass if the read isn't crystal clear. The reality of playing with Wembanyama is that there won't be a ton of open and easy lanes to deliver the ball to one of the best players in the world. Defenses are going to fight tooth and nail to discourage the looks, but let me let you guys in on a little secret.
He's 7'5" with an 8'0" wingspan.
All they have to do is throw it up, and more times than not, Vic will come down with it, or the opponent will foul him trying to make sure he doesn't get it. It's a win-win either way. Dylan Harper was making those passes, and it helped Wemby get easier shots, but the rookie is a natural point guard.
Well, so is Fox, and he also has the benefit of being a bona fide all-star-caliber talent. Everything changes when he returns, and fans finally get to see that tonight when the Spurs host the Pelicans.