Despite the Loss, Victor Wembanyama Relishes 'Special' Boston Debut
There was a palpable buzz flowing through TD Garden on Wednesday night. It amplified when rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama emerged from the tunnel for warm-ups, sustained through his pregame routine, Celtics PA announcer Eddie Palladino calling his name to loud cheers while introducing the Spurs starting five, and persisted as the burgeoning star showcased his rare blend of length, coordination, and skill.
However, Wembanyama's Boston debut was on par with how this season's gone for the first overall pick in this year's draft and a struggling San Antonio team.
The 20-year-old from France entered Wednesday's matchup as one of two players averaging at least 15 points, ten rebounds, three assists, one steal, and two blocks, the other being Anthony Davis.
But while he generated 27 points, five rebounds, and a block, the visitors shot 7/34 (20.6 percent) from beyond the arc, 41.9 percent from the field, and registered 25 points or fewer in three of four quarters.
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"The floor is very special," he stated post-game. "It didn't bother me, but it is special. I mean, it's just beautiful."
Wembanyama also shared his assessment of a Celtics team that improved their NBA-leading record to 32-9 and is now 20-0 at home this season, noting the growth he has seen from them since observing Boston's run to the 2022 Finals that came within two wins of capturing the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
"I mean, it's the depth. Everybody can hoop on that team. Everyone's a threat on the court. But at the same time, they all know their roles, and they're all willing to share the ball. From the most important franchise guys to the role players, everybody is ready to compete and make the sacrifices (needed). I can see that more compared to the past years as well. I remember clearly watching them in the Finals against Golden State (two) years ago, and I can see the growth of that team."
Further Reading
Celtics Finding Joy in Basketball and Each Other's Company: 'We've Been Blessed'
Fixated on Winning, Jayson Tatum Again Proves He's Not 'Bored Making the Right Play Over and Over'
Marcus Smart in Danger of Missing Return to Boston
Jrue Holiday Responds to Celtics Saying He's Sacrificing Most: 'Not Mad at My Situation'
Brad Stevens Shares What Celtics Are Looking to Add and How He Hopes to Do So
Jaylen Brown Quieting Doubters, Validating What He Always Believed: 'Earn Everybody's Trust'
Joe Mazzulla Discusses Identity, Evolution of Celtics' Offense: 'Balance of Pace and Execution'
Jaylen Brown Shares His View of What Defines 'Celtics Basketball'
