Basketball prospect Victor Wembanyama’s willingness to play defence will help him transition to the NBA more effectively and star, according to former superstar Chris Bosh.
Wembanyama is the hottest prospect in the 2023 draft class and he could well be the most promising young player since LeBron James entered the NBA 20 years prior in 2003. The Frenchman impressed during his first appearance in the United States, scoring 37 points – including seven three-pointers from 11 attempts – and registering five blocks as his club Metropolitans 92 faced the G League Ignite.
The 7’4” 18-year-old - who has an eight foot wingspan paired with the shooting ability of a point guard - is the surefire number one pick and teams are reportedly going to battle for the chance to pick him in the NBA draft lottery. His size means Wembanyama is a fearsome shot-blocker and rim protector while he is essentially unstoppable as a perimeter shooter.
Bosh is wary of pressure mounting on Wembanyama as his profile begins to grow, but the American hopes the teenager can simply focus on playing basketball. He has advised Wembanyama to continuing putting in effort to play defence at a high level, which will serve him well in the NBA.
“When you’re a kid like that with the talent that he has, yeah there’s going to be a lot of pressure - but he should just be the best version of himself,” the two-time NBA champion told House of Bounce. “Put in the work everyday. I love the fact that he buys into playing defence; I think if he keeps that mentality, that will be a huge help for him.
“But with all that said, it’s not easy. It’s going to be very, very difficult, and as long as he’s up for the challenge he’ll be alright.
Wembanyama averaged one steal, 3.8 blocks and 9.4 rebounds per 36 minutes across his first two years as a professional, which highlights his extraordinary defensive ability. Despite his relative inexperience, the center appears to have an intuitive understanding of the game, both on offence and defence.
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When asked about what he thinks of Wembanyama as an overall prospect, Bosh didn’t hesitate in heaping praise on the Frenchman.
“I mean, [he is the] number one pick - that goes without saying,” the former Miami Heat star added. “I think his recent success playing against his peers and contemporaries in the States right now just shows what he can do on the court and his talent. I’ve always joked that everybody on the court is basically going to be seven foot and over, and he’s definitely kind of a new prototype for the future of the NBA.”
For all his immense potential, there are some concerns regarding Wembanyama’s long-term healthiness, largely stemming from his slender build. The French star is listed between 210lbs and 220lbs – and already has a worrying injury history that includes absences for shoulder problems.
If he remains fit once he arrives in the NBA, Wembanyama could become one of the league’s most unique and thrilling box office attractions.
