As the league looks ahead to a post-LeBron James era, the question remains, who will be the next face of the NBA? Can it be French basketball phenom, Victor Wembanyama?
Kevin Durant sees something special in the San Antonio Spurs’ young superstar. When asked about Wembanyama’s potential to take on that mantle, Durant didn’t hesitate to praise the 7’4″ phenom.
Kevin Durant Thinks Victor Wembanyama Is Still in His Formative Years
When asked whether Wembanyama can be the next NBA star, the Phoenix Suns’ star emphasized that development isn’t about fixing weaknesses but about gaining experience, and Wembanyama will eventually get it.
“I don’t think anything is missing,” Durant said. “I think he just needs more experience in the NBA. He’s still early in his second year and already playing a lot of games. The playoffs were an eye-opening experience for him. That’s when you really learn about yourself, your team, and different situations.”
He believes Wembanyama is already on the right track, and with time, he’ll refine his understanding of the game and his place in it.
“He’s on the right path, one of the greatest we’ve ever seen. It’s just about going through those experiences and learning from them in real time,” Durant added.
But is Wembanyama the next face of the NBA? Durant isn’t sure anyone holds that title outright.
“I think so many guys have the opportunity to make a huge impact as the ‘Face of the League,’” he said. “I don’t even know what that term truly means. A lot of these guys, regardless of where they come from, are impacting people all around the world.”
Is Durant and Wembanyama’s Face-Off Happening?
The Spurs are set to host the Suns on Feb. 20 at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas — Durant’s old college. However, fans hoping to see Wembanyama go head-to-head with Durant this week might be disappointed. Wembanyama is listed as doubtful due to an unspecified illness. It’s likely he’ll be ruled out before tip-off.
That’s a tough blow for the Spurs, who have struggled lately. After starting the season 18-16, they’ve gone just 5-13 in their last 18 games. Despite their struggles, Wembanyama has been a bright spot, averaging 21 points, nine rebounds, and 3.5 assists against the Suns in four matchups.
Durant and Wembanyama are bound to face each other as their careers progress. However, his comment underscores Wembanyama’s potential, but his journey is still unfolding. Only with relevant experience can he reach the heights of his potential.
