Giannis Antetokounmpo shares thoughts on Victor Wembanyama after first head-to-head meeting
Add two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to the list of established stars who've come away impressed by dynamic San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama.
Following a slim 125-121 win by the Milwaukee Bucks over the Spurs on Thursday, Antetokounmpo spoke glowingly about the 2023 No. 1 pick, telling reporters he'd "never seen anything like him."
"He's an unbelievable talent. Can score at will, any time he wants," Antetokounmpo said via TNT. "He plays the right way, plays to win. It was great playing against him."
Ultimately, Antetokounmpo got the better of the youngster on his 20th birthday, but the pair put on a show.
Antetokounmpo paced the Bucks' effort, recording a game-high 44 points with 14 rebounds, seven assists, two steals and a block.
Meanwhile, Wembanyama finished with 27 points and two three-pointers, while adding nine boards and an incredible five blocks, including a rejection of the Bucks star late in the game.
The two versatile big men went back and forth, trading emphatic baskets several times on the night. During one particular flurry in the second half, Wembanyama went behind the back to get around the Bucks' Damian Lillard before throwing down a two-handed dunk. Then, Antetokounmpo responded, rising up on the rookie for a one-handed slam a few minutes later.
The Spurs are last in the Western Conference with a 5-29 mark, only two games better than the Detroit Pistons (3-31) for the worst record in the NBA. Still, despite the team's struggles, Wembanyama has emerged as another one of the league's unicorns, joining a short list that includes Antetokounmpo.
Along with Thursday night's effort, the Frenchman is averaging 24.5 points, seven rebounds and four blocks over his last four games, all while playing on a minutes restriction.
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