Bold Statement from Victor Wembanyama.

Most analysts agree on what’s ahead for San Antonio’s rising star, Victor Wembanyama—he’s on track to become the face of the NBA. Given his unique skill set, relentless drive, engaging personality, and unmatched versatility, it’s hardly an exaggeration.

Lately, discussions have emerged about other potential candidates for that role, with Anthony Edwards frequently mentioned. However, Edwards recently stated he has no interest in carrying that mantle, instead naming Wembanyama as the league’s next leading figure. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith pushed back against that idea on First Take, offering a surprisingly dismissive argument.

International Players Can Absolutely Be the Face of the NBA

It shouldn’t even be a debate—the NBA may stand for the National Basketball Association, but it has a worldwide fan base. The league’s top players don’t earn their status just by being popular in the U.S.; they resonate with fans across the globe. The fact that Wembanyama is already among the top-selling jerseys in his second season proves his international appeal.

Historically, generational talents like Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and LeBron James have naturally ascended to the face-of-the-league status. While stars like Stephen Curry and Kobe Bryant reached that level, their rise wasn’t quite as inevitable. Wembanyama, hailed as the greatest prospect in sports history, is following the path of those all-time greats. Dismissing his ability to become the face of the league simply because he was born outside the U.S. is a short-sighted take with no real basis.

If American fans had an issue with international players leading the league, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic wouldn’t be among the NBA’s most beloved stars—even in smaller markets like Milwaukee and Denver. Jokic’s lack of interest in that title keeps him out of the conversation, while Giannis hasn’t won enough to claim it outright.

For the NBA’s next true icon, youth is essential—it’s time for a fresh face. Wembanyama not only fits the bill, but his potential is unmatched. His drive to win is already the stuff of legend, and his highlight reel rivals some of the league’s all-time greats.

Stephen A. may be hesitant to accept it, but the so-called “Alien” has already landed. Wembanyama has been electrifying the league for over a year, and when he reaches his peak, he’ll be the most dominant force the game has ever seen. Time to catch up, Stephen A.

Bold Statement from Victor Wembanyama

Bucks Defeat Spurs as Giannis Praises Wembanyama

On Wednesday night, the Milwaukee Bucks hosted the San Antonio Spurs and secured a 121-105 victory.

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 25 points, 16 rebounds, eight assists, and one block, shooting 11/21 from the field in 36 minutes of action.

After the game, the two-time MVP shared his thoughts on Spurs star Victor Wembanyama during a media session.

“He’s probably one of the most talented players I’ve ever watched on TV or played against,” Antetokounmpo said. “This is his second year in the league, and he’s already much better than his first. He’s going to be the face of the league for many years.”

Wembanyama finished the game with 10 points, 10 rebounds, one assist, one steal, and three blocks, shooting 4/10 from the field and 2/6 from three-point range in 33 minutes.

Despite a quiet night, Wembanyama is having an impressive season, averaging 25.1 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.0 steals, and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 47.9% from the field and 35.4% from three over 32 games. He is also expected to make his first NBA All-Star appearance next month.