Posted on: July 10, 2023, 02:46h. Last updated on: July 10, 2023, 02:48h.
Struggling in his NBA 2K24 Summer League debut in Las Vegas, Victor Wembanyama had a stellar second game, scoring 27 points for the San Antonio Spurs. As the #1 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the French teenager faces high expectations. However, before even playing his first game, he found himself making headlines for an encounter with pop star Britney Spears. This distraction may have affected his performance in the disappointing debut game against the Charlotte Hornets. Nevertheless, Wembanyama bounced back with an impressive showing against the Portland Trail Blazers. He is currently the favorite to win the NBA Rookie of the Year award, with -130 odds according to DraftKings’s NBA awards market.
In his debut game against the Hornets, Wembanyama struggled, scoring only nine points and showing signs of nervousness on defense. However, he managed to contribute with eight rebounds, five blocks, and three assists. The Spurs narrowly defeated the Hornets with a final score of 76-68.
In his second game against the Trail Blazers, Wembanyama improved significantly, scoring 27 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and blocking three shots. He displayed better offensive skills, shooting 9-for-14 from the field and 2-for-4 from beyond the arc. Wembanyama’s defense was also more intense, and he showcased his shot-blocking ability with three more blocks in addition to numerous altered shots. Despite his strong performance, the Trail Blazers emerged victorious with a final score of 85-80.
There are rumors that Wembanyama may sit out the rest of the summer league to avoid the risk of injury. This decision, if true, is a precaution by the Spurs to protect their top prospect.
In unfortunate news, both Scoot Henderson of the Trail Blazers and Amen Thompson of the Rockets suffered injuries in the same game. Henderson, the #2 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, injured his right shoulder and will be sidelined for the rest of the summer league. Thompson, the #4 pick for the Rockets, rolled his left ankle and also won’t be participating for the remainder of the summer games.
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