Former DPOY touts Victor Wembanyama to edge out Jayson Tatum, Luka Doncic and more in one aspect
When it comes to emerging stars in the NBA, Victor Wembanyama sits atop the list. Following his latest dominant performance, one former player had a rather bold take regarding the San Antonio Spurs big man.
On Thursday night, the Spurs were able to edge out the Atlanta Hawks in an overtime thriller. Wemby was a major catalyst in the win, ending the night with 42 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and four blocks.
After seeing this outing, former Defensive Player of the Year Joakim Noah went on "Run It Back" and gave high praise to Victor Wembanyama on Friday. He feels the former No. 1 pick is the future face of the NBA over guys like Luka Doncic, Jayson Tatum and others.
"He's definitely the next face of the league," Noah said. "The world can see that. High IQ, somebody who is really smart, and somebody also who has played in some big games."
"You see the progress. He's so young. Give him two, three years this guy is gonna be running the league."
Following an impressive rookie campaign, Wembanyama's game continues to reach new heights. This season, he is averaging 24.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 3.5 blocks.
Victor Wembanyama makes appearance on recent NBA MVP ladder
After hype was built around him for an entire year, Victor Wembanyama entered the NBA with massive expectations. He's managed to reach the high bar set for him, as he's already shown the potential of being a dominant two-way force for the foreseeable future.
As Joakim Noah stated, Wembanyama is certainly in the conversation to be the next face of the league. Between his massive frame and impressive numbers, he is the ideal star the NBA can market on a global and international stage.
In just his second season, Victor Wembanyama is already being grouped in with some of the league's top talents. The San Antonio Spurs big center popped up on a recent MVP ladder, coming in at No. 8. Among the players just ahead of him include Anthony Davis, Jayson Tatum and Luka Doncic.
Seeing that the Spurs are still in a rebuilding phase, it's highly unlikely that Wemby breaks through to enter the MVP discussion come year's end. However, already being mentioned in rankings like this is a testament to the dominant start to his career.
At 20 years old, Wembanyama is already a near 25-point-per-game scorer and racking up over three blocks a night. By the time he reaches his prime, there is no telling what kind of numbers he'll be putting up. As a player with truly limitless potential, Wembanyama is on the fast track to being the face of the association for years to come.