Hall of Famer Ralph Sampson recently shared his thoughts on Victor Wembanyama’s game and the current state of the NBA. Sampson believes the San Antonio Spurs’ star is facing less formidable competition than players did in his era.
Sampson praised Wembanyama’s skill set and work ethic, acknowledging his unique abilities for a player of his size. However, he pointed out that the French prodigy doesn’t need to play in the post, unlike big men from previous generations.
According to Sampson, the lack of dominant big men in today’s NBA makes it easier for Wembanyama to excel. “He’s playing against little people,” Sampson told Dana Scott of Arizona Republic. He added that the game today is “totally different” from the physical battles of the past.
Sampson compared today’s NBA to the era in which he played, mentioning legendary big men like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Artis Gilmore, and A.C. Green. In his view, these players would have posed a much tougher challenge for Wembanyama.
The Hall of Famer believes that if Wembanyama played in the post, the game would change dramatically for him. He implied that players in the post used to face stronger, more physical opponents.
Sampson’s comments come as Wembanyama continues to shine in the NBA. The 7’4″ forward has been widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in the league. His ability to handle the ball and shoot from the perimeter sets him apart from traditional big men.
Last season, Wembanyama posted impressive stats for the Spurs, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.6 blocks per game. His versatile performance earned him the Rookie of the Year award, solidifying his place as one of the league’s rising stars.
Despite Wembanyama’s success, Sampson emphasized that the level of competition today differs from what big men faced in his era. He stressed the toughness and physicality required to dominate in the post during his time in the NBA.
Wembanyama’s combination of size, skill, and athleticism allows him to excel in the modern game, but Sampson’s remarks highlight the differences between the current era and previous generations. The Hall of Famer believes that the physicality of players from his time would have made it harder for Wembanyama to dominate in the post.
