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SAN ANTONIO, TX -MARCH 5: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs reacts after making a three-point shot against the Detroit Pistons in the first half at Frost Bank Center on March 5, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
There’s no questioning Victor Wembanyama’s greatness. Early into his impressive NBA career, the French national has dominated on both sides of the court. However, when it comes to his defensive prowess, Wembanyama’s play might extend beyond “great.”
One analyst who has been impressed by Wemby is sportswriter, journalist, and podcaster Zach Lowe, who says the Spurs big man is entering (or entered) an elite category. In fact, he might already top it.
“I don’t know that any statistical system can quantify what he is doing on every single possession defensively,” Lowe said about Wembanyama while speaking on Bill Simmons’ podcast. “Everything is different when he is on the floor and I don’t even know how to measure that.”
He added: “He’s the most dominant defensive player I’ve ever seen already. I am not that old, but I’ve seen Garnett, Olajuwon, Kawhi… all the guys post 70s, and I don’t remember anything like this.”
Wembanyama is a frontrunner for the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award. However, Lowe’s comparison and nod is a massive statement considering the names he mentioned.
Who is in the Defensive GOAT Conversation
Kevin Garnett
GettyKevin Garnett of the Boston Celtics.
Lowe nodded to Keving Garnett, Hakim Olajuwon, and Kawhi Leonard. So, who is in the conversation to be considered the greatest defensive player in NBA history?
The debate over the greatest defensive player in NBA history is stacked, as each of those players built reputations as game-changing defenders in very different ways. And the conversation extends beyond those three, four including Wemby.
Garnett was the ultimate lockdown defender, utilizing elite mobility and length to guard nearly every position. Olajuwon dominated the paint with his footwork and timing to rack up blocks and alter countless more shots. And Leonard represents a different kind of defensive dominance, rooted in perimeter control.
All three could shut down an opponent’s best player.
Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Gary Payton, Tim Duncan, and Bill Russell all have their own cases, too.
What makes Wembanyama’s case so fascinating is he blends elements of all of them, and adds something entirely new.
A Closer Look at Victor Wembanyama’s Career
GettySAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – MARCH 19: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs is surrounded by teammates after he scored the game-winning basket against the Phoenix Suns at Frost Bank Center on March 19, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)
Wembanyama stands at an enormous 7-foot-4 with a wingspan to match, however he also boasts guard-like agility/speed. He’s an elite rim protector like a traditional center, bust also can handle quicker guards who enter the paint. Simply put: he breaks traditional positional limitations.
Statistically, he’s already among the league leaders in blocks and defensive metrics. What makes his accomplishments even more impressive is that he’s still quite young and likely hasn’t reached his best play yet.
For now, though, Lowe’s statement captures the moment. We may be watching something entirely new unfold in real time—and it’s happening on the defensive end.