San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama experienced a ton of great moments during his rookie year in the NBA. In a matter of weeks, he may add winning Rookie of the Year to the list of accomplishments.
But one of the biggest moments of the season came when he blocked Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks back in January. Despite Antetokounmpo's size, strength, and power, Wembanyama was able to absorb contact from the Bucks star and still block his shot.
Speaking to The Ringer, the young French star spoke about stopping Antetokounmpo, and if he felt it later.
"I'm not sure maybe without the adrenaline, it might have hurt afterward," Wembanyama said. "I think I know some people can die from that but you know it was just like a "dumb battle."
He went on:
"Strength against strength, and I had to resist as much as I can. I don't think I could totally stop him, but I had to absorb the contact as much as I could. I think I did the best as a job I could, but I'm proud to be at this level this year because before I wouldn't have been able to to absorb this contact for sure."
The game featuring Wembanyama and Antetokounmpo was a chance for NBA fans to see the future of the league battling one of the best big men currently playing.
Instead of being intimidated by playing against the Greek Freak, Wembanyama scored 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 blocks, including the crucial one that came just 25 left in the game with the Bucks up by 3 points.
In the end, the Bucks won the game 125-121, which was par for the course for the Spurs all season. Even when Wembanyama did so well, other teams were able to beat his.
Ideally, that won't be the way next season goes for the Spurs. With Wembanyama getting better and San Antonio's front office possibly adding more help to the roster, the team could be a lot better in 2024-25.
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