Former player: Wembanyama is 'best defensive player in the world'

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama. Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Former NBA player calls Victor Wembanyama the 'best defensive player in the world,' makes strong argument

By Colby Colwell | Last updated Oct 23, 2025 11:20 PM ET

San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama had a season opener to remember in Wednesday's 125-92 win over the Dallas Mavericks.

Wembanyama had a team-high 40 points (15-of-21 FG), 15 rebounds, three blocks and zero turnovers, setting the franchise record for most points in a season opener and becoming the first player to register those numbers while shooting at least 70% from the floor, taking full advantage of his giant frame.

During an appearance on Thursday's edition of ESPN's "First Take," former player and current analyst Jay Williams had nothing but high praise for Wembanyama after his stellar showing against the Mavericks.

Jay Williams makes strong argument for Victor Wembanyama after impressive season opener

"What I saw last night? Is the highest ceiling in the NBA. ... This to me felt personal last night," Williams said. "It felt like he went at (Anthony Davis), he went at Cooper Flagg... By the way, he's the best defensive player in the world. I already think he has that title. And I think now, what we're seeing is the completeness. If (Victor Wembanyama) plays with this confidence? That's the best player in the league."

"What I saw last night? Is the highest ceiling in the NBA. ... If [Victor Wembanyama] plays with this confidence? That's the best player in the league."@RealJayWilliams weighs in on Victor Wembanyama after his performance against the Mavericks ✍️ pic.twitter.com/K8Gys64xsE
— First Take (@FirstTake) October 23, 2025

At 7-foot-4, it is obvious what Wembanyama brings to the Spurs defensively after leading the league in blocks last season while only appearing in 46 games. On Wednesday night, the Mavericks had no answer for him the entire game.

He completely took over the game and easily won the battle of former No. 1 overall picks as Flagg was held to just 10 points on 4-of-13 shooting. It was one highlight-reel play after another for Wembanyama as he showed how dominant his game can be on both sides of the floor.

It was even more impressive given he had not played in an NBA game in eight months due to a blood clot in his right shoulder. You would never know it, though, based off his flawless performance.

If Wembanyama can stay healthy and play with the kind of confidence he had in the opener, the rest of the league may be in trouble. He was efficient from the floor, his defense was on point and his ball security was elite, making him difficult to contain and a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.

Colby Colwell

Colby Colwell is a freelance contributor with a bachelor’s in Computer & Information Technology and a minor in Psychology from Western Kentucky University. With a deep passion for sports, especially NASCAR, he offers his substantial knowledge along with his adept writing skills. When he’s not writing, Colby enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with his family

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