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Victor Wembanyama Does Something Only Scottie Pippen Has

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Kenneth Teape | Last updated 4/1/24

The rookie season of San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama is one of the most impressive in NBA history. He will likely go down as the most dominant rookie in league history, as his first season in the league compares to some of the best we have ever seen.

If he keeps up the averages that he currently has, he will become only the second player to reach them. The first? Shaquille O’Neal during his MVP season back in 1999-2000 with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Wembanyama has reached statistical plateaus and combinations that have never been seen before as well. His combination of 3-point shooting and shot blocking puts him in rare air, as he is a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court.

Over the weekend, Wembanyama made some more impressive NBA history. He has recorded 113 3-pointers, 85 steals and 226 blocks. The only other player to have 100+ 3-pointers and 300+ STOCKS is Scottie Pippen, who did it during the 1994-95 season with the Chicago Bulls.

https://twitter.com/OptaSTATS/status/1773777199977615738

Pippen is regarded as the premier two-way player in NBA history. A wing capable of dominating the game in several ways, he was well into his career when he accomplished the feat that Wembanyama has done in his rookie season.

What are we going to see once Wembanyama is fully adjusted to life in the NBA, or when he bulks up and grows into his body? He is only scratching the surface of his potential, as we are in store for some truly special accomplishments over the next few years as long as he can stay healthy.

This season, Wembanyama is averaging 21.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.3 steals and 3.4 blocks per game. He is playing only 29.2 minutes per game as the Spurs have a strict plan in place for him this season to keep him fresh. Now that he has reached the 65-game threshold, Wembanyama looks to be a shoo-in for the Rookie of the Year award and will be a finalist for other accolades.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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