Author: Monojit Mandal
Victor Wembanyama, the French basketball sensation, has arrived in the United States, causing excitement among fans and signaling his imminent admission to the NBA. Wembanyama, generally predicted to be the top pick of the NBA draft and likely to be secured by the San-Antonio-Spurs, landed at Newark International Airport in New York City on Monday.
Wembanyama had not yet officially become an NBA star. Many enthusiastic admirers knew his travel information and were eagerly awaiting his arrival. As he made his way to an awaiting car, the young player happily signed autographs, including basketballs and Spurs jerseys bearing his name.
Wembanyama admitted his amazement at the fans’ knowledge of his trip in a video posted on the NBA’s social media accounts. “I’m not sure how they know which flight I was on, but it’s fun,” he commented as he navigated the New Jersey airport, avoiding the signs hanging from the ceiling of the terminal. “It’s a contrast to know that you’ve had an effect on the fans.“
These are also the first days of a hectic period for the 19-year-old French star. Wembanyama, widely regarded as a generational talent not seen since LeBron-James arrived in the basketball league in 2003, is expected to attend the pre-draft media conference and then the much-anticipated draft on Thursday. He is expected to join the San-Antonio-Spurs on Friday.
However, Wembanyama’s action-packed summer is far from over. He has been tipped as one of the hottest participants in the inaugural NBA Con, which will take place alongside the Summer League in Las Vegas from July 7 to 9. He also indicated his desire to play for France at the 2018 Basketball World Cup, which will be held in the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan between the end of August and September 10.
Wembanyama has been a skilled basketball athlete. His technique as a shooter, rebounder and shot blocker, combined with his ability as a passer and ball handler, given his height, make him a special player. Despite his youth, he has all the tools necessary to become a dominant force in the NBA.