San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) looks to pass the ball while defended by Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu (17) during the first half at Frost Bank Center.
Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Everything is right in the world again. Because San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama is back in action.
The Spurs opened their preseason schedule by hosting the Atlanta Hawks at Frost Bank Center on Thursday.
It did not take long for Wembanyama to make a jaw-dropping play. In the first quarter, he shook off Onyeka Okongwu with a crossover dribble and then proceeded to drain a step-back three-pointer.
How do you say absolutely unfair in French?
Wembanyama looked like a fusion of Kyrie Irving and James Harden with his dazzling move. This is the part where we remind you that he is 7-foot-4.
The 22-year-old Wembanyama had another fruitful summer, including hosting his teammates in France for a team-building trip and playing for the national team in the FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers. Also, he trained again with Hakeem Olajuwon, underscoring his commitment to improving his game.
The Spurs are seeking redemption after falling short in the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. With their retained core, plus the addition of Tobias Harris, they are expected to contend for the title anew.
Wembanyama recently grabbed attention for allegedly refusing to grant exclusive interviews to media outlets in the United States, fearing that their loss to the Knicks would be brought up.
As of this writing, the Spurs are leading the Hawks in the fourth quarter. Wembanyama has nine points, six rebounds, one assist, and one block in 17 minutes. Dylan Harper has 16 points, four rebounds, four assists, and one steal in 19 minutes.