G.O.A.T.

G.O.AT, an acronym for “Greatest of All Time ” is the most significant title any sports player can receive. However, nowadays scouts no longer look for GOATS, they look for what sports people like to call “Unicorns”. Like the fantasy animal, players with such titles are those who the sports leagues have never seen. In the NBA one of the most prominent examples includes a player from Latvia named Kristaps Porzingis who was at that time a revolutionary player for his height of 7 feet 2 inches and his guard-like package. However, as time progressed, tall players with shooting abilities and dribbling abilities became more and more common and Porzingis was no longer a “unicorn” of the league. But this year in the 2023 NBA draft, a player like nobody in the history of the league was drafted. Remarked as one of the best prospects since LeBron James, the French “Unicorn”, Victor Wembanyama has been drafted first pick in the 2023 NBA draft. Standing at an extraordinary height of 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 cm), the 19 year old caught the eyes of NBA scouts when he was just 15 years old. The combination of his guard-like dribbling and shooting, and his towering height is believed to be a revolution to the league. As the NBA constantly evolves, players like Wembanyama represent a new wave of talent that could potentially reshape the league in various ways.

First and foremost, Wembanyama’s unique physical attributes, combined with his basketball skills, could redefine the role of centers in the NBA. Traditionally, centers were primarily valued for their size, strength, and ability to dominate in the post. And nowadays NBA centers require some shooting abilities as well. However, Wembanyama’s agility, shooting ability, and ball-handling skills could introduce a new era where centers are not confined to the paint but can also stretch the floor and contribute to playmaking. Moreover, Wembanyama’s impact might extend beyond his individual performance to influence team strategies and dynamics. Teams might adapt their playing styles to capitalize on his versatility, implementing offensive schemes that take advantage of his shooting range and defensive prowess. Additionally, his shot-blocking ability could alter opponents’ offensive strategies, forcing them to reconsider their approach when facing a team with Wembanyama in the lineup.

Wembanyama’s entry into the NBA could also open up the league to become an international league. As a French prospect, his success could inspire and attract more young talents from around the world to pursue basketball careers in the NBA. This trend has already been evident with the increasing influx of international players making significant contributions to the league. The marketing and business aspects of the NBA could also experience a boost with Wembanyama’s potential arrival. The league has historically thrived on showcasing exceptional talents and personalities, and a player of Wembanyama’s stature could attract a global fanbase, leading to increased viewership, merchandise sales, and overall commercial success.

Though Wemby has gotten all this hype and has proven to be a strong rookie this 23-24 season in the NBA,  it’s essential to acknowledge that the transition from a promising prospect to a successful NBA player is a challenging journey. Variables such as adapting to the NBA’s level of competition, navigating the pressures of professional basketball, and staying injury-free all contribute to the uncertainties surrounding a young player’s career. Players in the past like Gred Oden and Shawn Bradley were all considered top prospects drafted as the first pick. However, career ending injuries have forced their potential-filled careers to cut short.

Though many believe Victor Wembanyama to become the next GOAT of the league, critics also believe there are many factors that could stop his career from progressing. From what he has shown in the league so far and with him being in the hands of the great coach Gregg Popovich, it may be safe to say he will become the next icon of the league without a doubt.

Y. Lee