Victor Wembanyama is already rewriting the script for what a defensive powerhouse looks like in the NBA, and he’s just getting started.
After an amazing rookie season with the San Antonio SpursWembanyama’s stats, defensive presence and impact on the game make him a favorite to win the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year award. Here’s why.
Ridiculous defensive impact
Wembanyama’s rookie season has been nothing short of historic. Averaging 3.6 blocks and 1.2 steals per game, he has been a nightmare for opposing offences. His unique combination of size, wingspan and timing has made him an instant disruptor. But the true measure of his impact goes beyond the scoresheet.
The Spurs’ defense was significantly better with him on the court, ranking among the top three defenses during his minutes. His presence alone changed the way teams approached their offensive sequences. In fact, when Wembanyama was on the court, opponents scored 8.2 fewer points per 100 possessions. That’s a staggering impact that few, if any, players in recent history can match.
For comparison, some of the best defenders in the NBA have not reached this level of defensive efficiency:
Wemby’s ability to warp the court defensively, forcing top scorers to give up shots or change their approach entirely, is a trait that sets him apart from the rest. His influence on the game is reminiscent of Stephen Curry’s offensive gravity — Wembanyama is the defensive version of that rare phenomenon.
Beyond blockages and flights
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Wembanyama’s defensive prowess isn’t limited to his individual stats. His ability to alter shots, disrupt passing lanes, and control the paint makes him a defensive unicorn. While his 3.6 blocks per game are impressive, it’s the number of shots he alters that truly makes him special. Opponents often hesitate to drive to the basket or shoot for a shot when he’s in close proximity.
Throughout the 2023-24 season, Wembanyama also ranked among the league’s elite in defensive categories outside of blocks:
His ability to clean the glass and initiate fast breaks off his rebounds is another key asset that fuels his overall impact on the game.
A rookie season that will remain etched in memories
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Wembanyama’s rookie season was nothing short of historic. He became the first rookie in NBA history to be named to the Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team, an honor bestowed since the 1968-69 season. In addition, he became the first player to achieve a remarkable stat line of at least 1,500 points, 250 blocks and 100 three-pointers in a single season.
His 2023-24 numbers (21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds and 3.6 blocks per game) made him the unanimous choice for Rookie of the Year. Wembanyama also earned All-Star Game honors and a spot on the All-Rookie Team.
Defensive Player of the Year on the horizon?
Given his incredible start to the season, it’s no surprise that Wembanyama is already a favorite to win the 2024 Defender of the Year award. Bookmakers have him listed as a favorite, with odds ranging from -200 to -160. His ability to completely change the Spurs’ defensive landscape puts him in a league of his own.
As for his sophomore season, Wembanyama is poised for even more success. With more experience, he’s likely to improve both his efficiency and his overall game. His 32.5 percent three-point shooting is promising, and as his jump shot continues to improve, he’ll become an even bigger threat on offense. But it’s his defense that will set him apart.
If Wembanyama maintains or builds on his already extraordinary defensive numbers, it’s hard to imagine anyone else winning the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024, especially after finishing second to fellow Frenchman Rudy Gobert last season.
Wembanyama is a generational talent, a player who disrupts the game with his mere presence. As he develops, the Spurs and the league will have to adapt to his defensive dominance.
In 2024, don’t be surprised if he adds some more material to his growing resume.