ESPN has already begun speculating on Victor Wembanyama’s potential dissatisfaction with the San Antonio Spurs. However, one veteran Spurs reporter is pushing back against these assertions.
During Monday’s episode of “NBA Today,” ESPN reporters Malika Andrews and Ramona Shelburne, alongside former NBA players Danny Green and Kendrick Perkins, discussed Wembanyama’s patience with the Spurs. Despite his impressive rookie season, the Spurs have struggled as one of the NBA’s weakest teams.
Andrews suggested that Wembanyama might not be very patient, while Shelburne hinted at the possibility of him seeking a trade in “a year or two” given the team’s current situation. Perkins emphasized the pressure on the Spurs to quickly surround Wembanyama with talent.
RELATED: Victor Wembanyama Claims Ja Morant Threatened Him With Rap Lyrics
In response, longtime Spurs reporter Mike Finger of the San Antonio Express-News addressed the ESPN segment about Wembanyama. Finger dismissed the idea that Wembanyama is eager to accelerate the Spurs’ timeline, emphasizing Wembanyama’s patience and commitment to the team’s long-term plan.
Finger’s post stated:
“I say this without an ounce of exaggeration or hyperbole: I talk to people about the Spurs every day. And of all those people, there is one who is, by far, the most forward-thinking and relentlessly patient when it comes to the plan.
“It’s the 20-year-old kid. And it’s not close,” wrote Finger.
While Wembanyama is indeed a remarkable talent deserving of postseason recognition, even the best players often have to wait their turn. Rookie seasons for LeBron James and Luka Doncic, both of whom missed the playoffs, serve as examples.
Reports suggest the Spurs are exploring a trade for a three-time All-Star point guard to complement Wembanyama.
Wembanyama will undoubtedly have his opportunity to shine in the playoffs—it’s just a matter of when, not if.
