One of the reasons why fans highly anticipate the upcoming 2023-24 season is because of the introductory league collision between Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. Since before entering the NBA, both promising big men have been tangled with each other already due to their physique and skill set resemblance that often draws wide debate and attention.
Regardless of the fact that he is about to officially forge a rivalry with Wembanyama to start up their young professional career, Holmgren still holds the utmost respect and acknowledgment of the French sensation.
“Great player, very deserving of the attention he’s getting. It’ll be fun to be able to match up against him,” Holmgren told HoopsHype’s Sam Yip when asked about his thoughts on Wembanyama.
Holmgren stands at 7-foot-1 in height, two inches shorter than Wembanyama who boasts a towering 7-foot-3 tallness. Despite their lanky frame, their game has been nothing but promising for a modern big man that is prototypical and is likely to pave the way for the next generations to come.
Holmgren and Wembanyama have salivated a preliminary test for themselves on a big stage as the United States and France have met at the 2021 FIBA U19 World Cup championship game. The then-17-year-old Wembanyama introduced himself loudly to the basketball world upon dominating with 22 points, eight rebounds, and eight blocks, but tournament MVP Holmgren chipped in 10 points and five assists to help his fellow Americans in grabbing the title.
Fast forward to two years, and both of them are slated to start their first NBA campaign and be in the race for the Rookie of the Year award this forthcoming season. Holmgren’s rookie outing was notably halted last season upon suffering from a season-ending Lisfranc injury.
Both the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs will start their preseason showcase with each other on Oct. 9. As such, many have already encircled the stated date to their calendars as this sets up a major bout already for the two rising stars.
