NBA: Gobert showers Wembanyama, 15th defeat in a row for the Spurs

Victor Wembanyama, for his first in the United States and in the NBA, was promised all or almost all the records in the prestigious American league. We do not yet know what the Frenchman’s fate will be in the USA but he is already approaching a first record. Not necessarily the one he dreamed of and even one he could have done without. His San Antonio Spurs lost their fifteenth consecutive game at Western Conference leader Minnesota (102-94) on the night of Wednesday to Thursday in the NBA. And with 15 defeats in a row, the Spurs are approaching the worst series of the franchise these 16 defeats in a row last season…

This is not exactly how the ex-Levalloisien dreamed of marking the floors. Wembanyama, back after missing a match due to a hip problem, did not show off. Clumsy when shooting, Wembanyama was rather discreet for his return (12 points, 10 rebounds). San Antonio held up well before cracking in the fourth quarter. And Wemby remained in the shadow of another Frenchman: Rudy Gobert who, with 16 points, 21 rebounds and 2 blocks, was given a standing ovation by his audience.

“It’s nice to see that work pays off”

“We were behind at half-time but we continued to believe in ourselves, in our defense. When things get hard we stay confident in ourselves. Since the summer training camp we have had a different energy, a single goal, it’s nice to see that the work is paying off,” appreciated Gobert, an essential defensive cog for the Wolves.

Obviously asked about his compatriot, Gobert wanted to be optimistic and positive: “Playing with Victor (Wembanyama) is fun. He’s someone I like, I hope he will be successful, I will always be there for him, I can’t wait to see him develop,” greeted the eldest (2.16 m), who could form the racket of the French basketball team with the young giant (2.24 m) at the Paris Olympic Games in 2024. While the Spurs remain dead last in the west (3 victories – 17 defeats), Minnesota is at the top of the standings (16 wins – 4 losses) and undefeated in five games.