'He’s actually better than the hype!' Jamal Crawford sets high expectations for Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama despite inconsistent start so far

Crawford thinks it’s the intangible qualities like his work ethic that Victor Wembanyama possesses that make him so scary. He told Draymond Green:

I don’t think Wemby’s best attribute is scoring… After the game we’re walking out; he’s in the weight room… doesn’t even say nothing. He just puts his head down. He wants some wisdom or knowledge… The little things he does besides the big things you see? Is why he’s actually better than the hype. It’s scary.

Jamal Crawford said

Crawford’s insights came right after Wembanyama’s impressive game against the Atlanta Hawks. Despite the Spurs’ defeat, the rookie’s influence was clear. Scoring 26 points in the second half and grabbing 13 rebounds, he showcased his game-changing potential. It wasn’t only his basketball IQ and skillset but also his humility and willingness to learn that stood out to Jamal Crawford.

As the Spurs progress this season, they’re carefully handling Wembanyama’s playtime and fitting him into their strategy. It’s about more than just now; it’s about his huge future potential. The thing with Wemby is, that he’s not just any rookie; he’s the dawn of a new Spurs era.

Victor Wembanyama adds a little streetball to his bag, courtesy of Jamal Crawford

During the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend, a charming moment unfolded between Jamal Crawford, celebrated for his dribbling prowess, and the San Antonio Spurs’ rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. Crawford offered to mentor Wemby, focusing on the iconic Shake n Bake dribble. Wemby, who had been practising in Miami, caught Crawford’s attention with a video of him attempting the move.

This interaction blossomed into a hands-on tutorial where Crawford introduced Wemby to a sophisticated dribbling technique. Despite a minor mishap, the move seemed achievable for the rookie. It involves an in-and-out dribble that sneaks under the player’s hips and reappears on the other side. Crawford’s challenge was simple: execute this move in the rising stars game to unlock a personal lesson on the Shake n Bake’s complexities.

This mentorship between Crawford and Wemby is more than just about dribbling. It represents the passing of the torch, where experienced players guide the new generation, and the ongoing enhancement of basketball’s craft.