Victor Wembanyama has shared his insights on his experience at the Paris Olympic games this summer and how it has influenced his approach to Year 2 in the NBA.
“It’s hard to win games in the Olympics,” he said, via ESPN. “But it’s very easy to lose games.”
Wembanyama entered the NBA with high expectations and pressure, but he embraced the challenge. The Olympics presented a whole new level of competition.
“It was maybe the most intense sports experience in my life,” Wembanyama expressed about the Olympics. “I felt really fortunate to have the opportunity to live through those moments. I felt a sense of pride as well. During all elimination games, we were fully focused for 40 minutes on one thing: the next play. As a team, this level of concentration builds something special, all of us working towards the same goal. The emotions were overwhelming. You have to let it out, whether through shouting or shedding a few tears. It’s too much to contain.”
Spurs coach Greg Popovich believes that Wembanyama will benefit greatly from his intense experience with the French team.
“He continuously improved throughout the Olympics and proved to be a formidable force,” Popovich observed. “His aggressive play and physicality stood out. He’s learning what it takes, what to expect, and how to respond. FIBA basketball is much more physical. The Olympics provided a valuable learning experience for him. He showcased his abilities against top competition, such as scoring 26 points against the USA team in the Finals. It was reminiscent of some of the greats like David Robinson, where you don’t realize the impact until after the game due to his versatility and skill set.”
As Year 2 progresses, Wembanyama emphasizes that the pressure remains high and the ultimate goal is to win.
“I handle these expectations like I have for years,” Wembanyama stated. “I focus on my responsibilities and strive to improve my teammates. I am grateful for the recognition, but my main focus will always be on winning and elevating my team. The difference this year is our expectation to win, compared to last year when we aimed to learn and grow as a team.”
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