Spurs’ Victor Wembaniama explains what caused the huge jump from his rookie year

While he’s already treated basketball fans to performances they’ve never seen before during his first two seasons in the NBA, Victor Wembanyama left the world of sports with something else in San Antonio SpursA 125-92 win over the Dallas Mavericks.

Continuing to deliver eye-popping moments, the 7-foot-5 center, who some insist is closer to 7-foot-7, looked more concise in bringing together the various elements of his game. The generational talent again proved he is worthy of that description with 40 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks in the silver and black’s season opener.

Said after the game that basketball fans everywhere were left buzzing with the feeling that now he is unstoppableWemby did not miss.

“Okay,” he interjected in the middle of a reporter’s question.

As those around him, including teammates and coaches, constantly try to process what Vembanyama has already become – never mind what he ends up being – the 21-year-old French phenom shared some insight.

“I feel like it’s a mix of game knowledge, recognition, patterns on the field and, obviously, physical development.”

Fresh from an awe-inspiring performance in the sporting world, Wemby explains his continued rise…

“A mixture of knowledge, games, recognition…
If I could have done it at 19… I would have done it… now I’m able, the proof is here…” ⬇#Spurs pic.twitter.com/tDDISegIj2

— Hector Ledesma (@HectorLedesmaTV) October 23, 2025

“If I could, if I could have done it when I was 19 or 16, anytime, I would have done it. I mean, I would have tried to do it,” continued Spurs’ top scorer for each of the last two seasons.

“But there are some things that just take time, and I’m able to do it now. The proof is there, so there’s no reason not to.”

Wemby went 15/21 from the field, including 11 free throws, of which he hit nine, and a four-point game, all while being guarded by All-NBA defender Anthony Davis and standout big man Derek Lively II.

Victor Vembanyama’s performance was inspired by a number of factors

As well as his “OK” quip, Wemby got to the point of asking if he wanted to show off aspects of his game that the rest of us haven’t seen yet.

“Of course, of course.”

The intent of the 2023 NBA draft’s first overall pick, demonstrated in Dallas, began long before tipoff.

“I felt like I had to make a statement to my teammates. It’s also just the beginning because I still have a lot I want to add to my game, but some things take time and maturity.”

Vembanjama was so spectacular that it’s easy to forget that it was his first competitive game since February, when his season ended due to blood clot in right shoulder.

“Now I’m having more fun when I’m not trying so hard to move.”

Vembanyama’s 40 points easily proved to be a game high. Spurs teammate Stephon Castle has 22 tied for the next nearest sum.

“With a few minutes left in the fourth and we’re up 30 or so, and I feel like every day we’re trying to put a brick to build a giant mansion. It felt like the job was done for the day,” Wemby added.

What then came out of Vembanyama’s mouth should scare the rest of the NBA.

“I know I still have to get better, and I will get better.”