How Victor Wembanyama Won Over Everyone
Victor Wembanyama is not washed up. Some people weren't so sure after a rough summer league debut. But reports of his NBA demise were greatly exaggerated.
This article originally appeared in the weekly Stadium Talk newsletter with Betting Predators, a sports betting media platform. You can subscribe to our newsletter and get it delivered straight to your inbox.
French Reflection
There were a lot of jokes and irresponsible hot takes following Victor Wembanyama's introduction to the NBA, Britney Spears and her army. He handled the circus like a pro.
"Honestly, I didn’t really know what I was doing on the court," Wembanyama said after scoring nine points in his first summer league game. "I’m trying to learn for the next games. … [it’s] important to be ready for the season."
That's the kind of honest assessment you want to hear from a No. 1 pick.
Second to None
Game 2 from Victor Wembanyama was more like what everyone expected. 27 points, 12 boards, three blocks, and only five missed shots.
He won't be playing any more summer league. The San Antonio Spurs want the 19-year-old from France to rest, reset, and get ready for training camp and the 82-game regular season.
Building a Winner
It takes time to rebuild. So don't expect any overnight dynasties in San Antonio.
The over/under for Spurs wins in the 2023-24 season is 30.5, and they are +20000 longshots to win the NBA title.
Only eight teams have longer odds.
Biggest Longshots for 2024 NBA Title
Everyone's Excited About Wemby
The NBA knows a generational talent when they see one.
From Gregg Popovich (the NBA's winningest coach who signed a new five-year contract instead of retiring) to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ("skill set") to Jerry West ("a bigger Bill Russell") to Spurs teammates ("he's amazing on and off the court"), everyone is raving about Wemby.
NBA Rookie of the Year 2023-24
Victor Wembanyama -130
Chet Holmgren +350
Scoot Henderson +400
Brandon Miller +1200
Cam Whitmore +2000
Go Time
The kid himself is pumped. "There’s something great going on, starting," Wembanyama said. "We kind of knew it was going to happen, but now it’s, let’s get it rolling. We can get started now."
Superfreak Action
Victor Wembanyama doesn't just want to win. He wants to become a superstar, champion and icon. He's got the brains and ability to make it happen.
That's why sportsbooks love him. DraftKings has future markets on Wembanyama's stats, Spurs results, and season-long parlays.
NBA Odds on Wemby
35+ Regular-Season Wins +190
Score 40+ Points in Any Game +300
40+ Regular-Season Wins +500
Score 45+ Points in Any Game +1000
Season Parlays
Average 20+ PPG, 2+ BPG +185
Average 20+ PPG, 10 RPG +240
Spurs Win West, Average 10+ RPG +15000
Spurs Win West, Average 1.8+ BPG +17000
Spurs Win West, Average 20+ PPG +20000
Spurs Win NBA Title, Win ROY +30000
All odds are subject to change.
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This article originally appeared in the weekly Stadium Talk newsletter with Betting Predators, a sports betting media platform. You can subscribe to our newsletter and get it delivered straight to your inbox.