PARIS (AP) — According to Tony Parker, the San Antonio Spurs have a promising future with Victor Wembanyama, the talented French player. Parker, a retired NBA star who played 17 seasons with the Spurs and won four championships with them, expressed his confidence in Wembanyama’s potential in a phone interview with The Associated Press on Friday. As the first overall pick in the NBA draft, the 19-year-old prodigy had expressed his desire to join the Spurs, and Parker believes it to be a perfect match due to their shared French connection and the franchise’s renowned legacy. Standing at an impressive height of 7-foot-4, Wembanyama has already made a significant impact in the French league, leading in scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots during his final season with Metropolitans 92.
Despite his towering stature, Wembanyama possesses remarkable shooting accuracy from beyond the arc, showcasing exceptional technical skills.
“He is truly one-of-a-kind,” Parker expressed with admiration. “His skill set is unparalleled. We have never witnessed a player of his height, standing at 7-foot-5, shoot with such finesse, exhibit extraordinary dribbling abilities, and play the game in such a distinctive manner. I am eagerly anticipating watching him in action with the Spurs.”
Parker, who holds the majority ownership of French club Villeurbanne, shares a strong bond with Wembanyama, having played together for a season.
“When the Spurs secured the lottery pick, we spoke and exchanged texts, and we continued our conversation last night,” Parker revealed. “I am genuinely thrilled for him, and I will undoubtedly provide my support.”
When asked about the advice he would offer Wembanyama for a smooth transition into the Spurs and the NBA, Parker emphasized the importance of remaining true to oneself.
“The only advice I would give him is to be himself,” Parker stated.
“And he already possesses that mindset,” Parker responded. “He isn’t fazed by the pressure or expectations, which is why I believe the Spurs are the perfect fit for him. He is in excellent hands.”
After establishing a league record of 22 consecutive playoff appearances, the San Antonio Spurs have experienced a postseason drought for the past four seasons, marking the longest in their 50-year history. Parker is confident that Wembanyama’s arrival will contribute to rebuilding a competitive team.
“It’s a strong starting point,” he remarked. “Now, he will need support. Winning an NBA championship is an incredibly challenging task. So, with the Spurs, we have a lot of work ahead of us in assembling pieces around him that will complement his abilities and enable us to contend for a championship.”
As a former member of the French national team, Parker himself received numerous accolades, including being named the FIBA Europe Player of the Year in 2013 and 2014, as well as becoming the league’s leading scorer in 2011 and 2013.
Parker believes that Wembanyama’s ascent to the top will also have a positive impact on French basketball.
“It’s fantastic for the sport, and it’s particularly great for French basketball,” Parker expressed. “Undoubtedly, the future looks bright for us with the national team.”
