Wembanyama, “the most incredible hope that French basketball has ever had” according to Collet

They were all in the front row to see “the UFO” – as it is called LeBron James – in action, and Victor Wembanyama did not disappoint for his US premiere. Tuesday evening, the 18-year-old interior produced an impressive performance (37 pts, including 28 in the second half) during the defeat (122-115) conceded by the Metropolitans 92. Even Vincent Collet, who knows the boy well, was impressed with one who is shaping up to be a generational talent.

At what level did it surprise you for its premiere in the United States?

Beyond what he achieved in the second half, which was remarkable and exceptional, with his three-point baskets (7 out of 11 attempted), his rebounds, his numerous counters, which illustrated his enormous impact, it is his ability to react, after a first period which was a bit complicated. He had started with two, three good deeds, but also two, three less good ones. He struggled in defense, on penetrations from Scoot Henderson [son rival dans la course au N.1 de la draft]. Compared to him, at that time, he was in withdrawal. And the fact that he turned the tide in the second half is remarkable. This ability to react is the hallmark of the great. It blew me away.

He said that this game, and the next Thursday, were the most important meetings of his career in terms of exposure. And he assumed after putting the pressure on himself…

Yes and there was also his statement also about Henderson which I think was unwelcome, even if it was a joke [Wembanyama avait plaisanté en disant « Si je n’étais pas né, je pense qu’il mériterait la première place »]. But Victor responded. Coming this far is brave. Expectations are enormous, he is announced all the same as favorite of the draft. The fact of exposing oneself, there is a taking of risk.

What makes him a unique player?

This is what he manages to achieve in terms of technicality, agility, mobility in relation to his extraordinary physique. For example, we do not necessarily expect a great [il mesure 2,21 m] that he puts as many three-point baskets in all positions. He even puts them in motion… There are big guys who kick their feet in the cement, but Victor is able to move and kick, it’s something quite unique.

What are the areas in which he needs to improve?

In the toughness, in his ability to choose the right shots. During the first French league matches, he had a lot of waste, because he doesn’t always make the right choices. However, it is not simple, because each time he has the ball in his hands, he can shoot. It therefore needs to be more efficient. For that, it takes time and patience, it’s part of learning.

The physical is essential in the NBA, where he will play 82 games per season, not counting the play-offs. Is there work to be done on this plan?

Of course, he will have to strengthen his body. Because one of its great strengths is its mobility and for that to remain the case, you have to have the right balance. We will work in this direction. He wants it, he has the determination for it.

His maturity is obvious, it adds to his qualities as a basketball player, in the service of a great ambition…

Yes, there you go, he’s the most incredible French prospect basketball has ever had.