Victor Wembanyama’s honesty regarding his ambitions may lead to a label he doesn’t deserve. He has been open about his high self-regard and what he aims to achieve in the NBA. This contrasts with the often media-trained responses from other star players.
Wembanyama has implied he should be the “face of the league.” He also stated that he is “…Taking great care of my body cause I also want to win the MVP, and the DPOY.”
Wembanyama’s Confidence Versus Arrogance
Wembanyama is tracking to become the best player in the league, and his statements come from a place of honesty and confidence. This differs from arrogance, a label he’s likely to receive as he continues to grow in fame and skill.
The difference between Wembanyama and other stars is twofold.
- He is incredibly honest about how he views himself and what he wants to accomplish.
- Wembanyama is tracking to become the best player in the league.
The Risk of Perceived Arrogance
Teams that win too much, and players who reach a certain level of accomplishment, often face a shift in public perception. The same traits that initially made them likeable can become ammunition for criticism.
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s experience serves as an example. Their carefree nature and dominant wins initially endeared them to fans, but some fans are starting to turn on them as they continue to win.
Wembanyama’s honesty might force him into a similar path. The gentlemen at The Hoop Collective podcast called Wembanyama arrogant (but clearly out of respect, to be fair).
Part of what makes Wembanyama so special is his willingness to say what he’s thinking and not give the typical media-trained, run-of-the-mill answers laced with fake humbleness.
If Wembanyama continues to progress as a player the way we all think he will, the way in which folks view Wemby’s honesty will change. It won’t be fair, but that’s the way things go in the NBA.