Feb 5, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) passes after controlling a loose ball against the Atlanta Hawks in the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Victor Wembanyama's Statement After De'Aaron Fox's Debut

Originally posted on San Antonio Spurs on SI
By Matt Guzman | Last updated Feb 5, 2025 11:18 PM ET

Playing alongside his new teammate for the first time of the season, Victor Wembanyama couldn't help but enjoy what De'Aaron Fox brought to a young Spurs roster.

"It's a surprise for nobody," he said. "We're all for it. We all enjoy it. It puts a lot on the table for us."

Fox made history during the Spurs' 126-125 victory, notching 24 points, 13 assists, and three steals as the only Spur to record at least 20 points and 10 assists in a debut. Wembanyama, battling sickness, matched him, though slivers of his ailment peeked through his game.

Victor Wembanyama tonight:

24 PTS
12 REB
2 AST
1 BLK
1 game winning FT

Sick or not, he balls. pic.twitter.com/xnAYFHK5lo
— WembyMuse (@Wemby_Muse) February 6, 2025

A missed drive opportunity near the end of the game prompted Fox to call out his new teammate, encouraging him not to kick out the ball and take it himself. Wembanyama appreciated that.

"He maybe doesn't know it, yet, but it goes both ways," Wembanyama said. "I haven't had time to show it yet ... it's going to be a healthy circle."

“I told him ‘you better not kick that ball out’…we live or die by what you decide to do”

De’Aaron Fox breaks down the Spurs’ final play and his confidence in Wemby in the closing moments pic.twitter.com/GbipkAeuj5
— Casey Viera (@Casey_Viera) February 6, 2025

After Day 1 of Wembanyama and Fox's partnership, it's clear that things are looking up in San Antonio. A win over the Hawks was a good place to start, but — as it usually goes with Wembanyama — not nearly enough.

That's what's next.

"It sure brings an interesting perspective," the 21-year-old said. "I think that our goals for this season are even more attainable. We've got to use all of our strengths. We just added a big (one)."

De'Aaron Fox, Victor Wembanyama Spearhead Spurs' New Era

De'Aaron Fox Makes Announcement After Trade to Spurs

NBA Fans React to De'Aaron Fox Trade to San Antonio Spurs

This article first appeared on San Antonio Spurs on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: