Spurs' Victor Wembanyama: Top Spot in Rookie Ladder?
San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama is disappointed after missing just his second game of the season against the Milwaukee Bucks last night in what would have been his first game against former MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Despite Wembanyama missing time, NBA.com still lists him as the league's best rookie in the latest Rookie Ladder.
Dec 15, 2023; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) dunks during the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Frost Bank Center.
© Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
"Apparently, only one 'freak' allowed on the floor at a time is a new rule or something, with Wemby missing his test against Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo," NBA.com writes. “'Probably one of the players I have studied the most,' Wembanyama had said in advance of the scuttled matchup. Still, he dutifully sat through San Antonio’s 22nd defeat, rocking some blaze orange more commonly seen at Lambeau Field."
Wembanyama holds the top spot over Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren. Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat), Brandon Miller (Charlotte Hornets) and Ausar Thompson (Detroit Pistons) round out the top five.
Wembanyama is averaging 19 points and 11 rebounds so far this season, which leads many to believe what he'll actually be able to do once he gets more accustomed to the NBA game.
Wembanyama could have the chance to return to action tomorrow when the Spurs visit the Chicago Bulls. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT.
