San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama has taken the NBA by storm with his impressive performances. In just seven games, he has led the Spurs to a 3-4 record while averaging 19.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. It’s a feat that hasn’t been accomplished since Shaquille O’Neal‘s rookie season in 1992.
Wembanyama’s standout performance came in a game against the Phoenix Suns, where he scored 38 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to secure a 132-121 victory. It’s no surprise that he has become a fan favorite, with viewership for Spurs games on NBA League Pass in France up 200% year-over-year.
The 7-foot-4 phenom has also had a significant impact on NBA revenue and jersey sales. He has garnered an impressive 377 million digital video views across the NBA app and the league’s various social media platforms, more than any other player since October 1st.
Additionally, his jersey has become the second-best-selling jersey in France at NBA Store Europe in just three months. It’s clear that Wembanyama is now a heavy favorite to win the NBA Rookie of the Year award.
The best bookies have given him an 80 percent chance of winning. OKC Thunder forward Chet Holmgren is the only other rookie with a chance at contending for the award at +400 odds.
Wembanyama himself remains humble despite his early success, stating that he still has a lot to learn and improve on. “I’m just trying to take it one game at a time and help my team win,” he said.
