San Antonio Spurs big man Victor Wembanyama is looking to make a statement in the MVP race.
Wembanyama reminded everyone of his MVP consideration with a strong performance.
Wembanyama’s Dominant Performance Against Golden State
Wembanyama had an excellent showing in a 127-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors. He scored 41 points and secured 18 rebounds in the game.
It marked Wembanyama’s second consecutive 41-point game. It was also his fifth straight game with at least 15 rebounds. No Spurs player has accomplished this since Dennis Rodman.
Steve Kerr’s High Praise
Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr praised Wembanyama’s elevated game this season. Kerr said Wembanyama has unbelievable confidence now.
“He looks like he knows exactly what to do on both ends,” Kerr said. “His first couple years, he looked young at times. He doesn’t look young anymore. He just looks like he knows exactly what he’s doing. Dominated the glass. There’s plays you can’t do anything. Several lobs where it looked like a Nerf hoop. He’s brilliant.”
Wembanyama’s MVP Aspirations
Wembanyama has openly campaigned for the MVP award. He reiterated his desire to win some silverware during an appearance on ESPN after the game.
“I do care deeply about it,” Wembanyama told ESPN. “I think that of the greats that are in the Hall of Fame — or the best of all time — they have fought and grabbed everything they could grab early on in their career. If I want to make my spot among the greats, I got to try to not miss any occasion to put my name up there.”
The Competition for the Award
Winning the award could be a challenge. Luka Dončić has entered the conversation after averaging 39.8 points over his last 13 games.
Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is also a favourite for the award. He’s averaged 31.5 points in his last 11 games.
- Dončić has averaged 39.8 points over his last 13 games.
- Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged 31.5 points in his last 11 games.
- Wembanyama is averaging 27.5 points in his last 10 contests.
Even with his two 41-point games, Wembanyama is averaging 27.5 points in his last 10 contests. That’s lower than either of the other two MVP candidates. Wembanyama provides more value as a rebounder and defender.
Whether Wembanyama wins the MVP award is uncertain. It’s clear he has established himself as a star and face of the league this season.
If he doesn’t win the MVP this season, it feels like it’s only a matter of time before the honour goes his way.