Melo praises Wembanyama, sees him evolving in Kevin Durant’s mold.

Carmelo Anthony, the former NBA star, has weighed in on the comparisons between the highly touted rookie Victor Wembanyama and established players like Giannis Antetokounmpo. Anthony expressed his perspective on his show “7PM in Brooklyn,” emphasizing that Wembanyama represents an evolution of Kevin Durant rather than a young Giannis.

“What we seeing now with Wemby… It’s evolution of Durant, KD… You talking about the mold of KD, 6′ 10″-6′ 11″ can handle, can shoot, a sniper, a killer. You get what I’m saying? That’s the mold.” (8:00)

Standing at an impressive 7 feet 4 inches, Wembanyama, the No.1 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft for the Spurs, has generated significant buzz with his exceptional skills, including a wide wingspan, speed, and agility. Anthony highlighted Wembanyama’s abilities, stating that what sets him apart is his embodiment of the “KD mold”—a player who can handle the ball, shoot effectively, and exhibit a killer instinct.

Anthony underscored the uniqueness of Wembanyama’s skills, asserting that comparing him to Giannis wouldn’t be fair because they bring different attributes to the game. According to Anthony, Wembanyama is currently excelling in areas where Giannis might not, emphasizing his versatility and proficiency in handling the ball and being a sharpshooter.

On the other hand, Anthony acknowledged Giannis Antetokounmpo’s distinct playing style, describing it as a “traditional four” mold. Giannis draws inspiration from the legacy of big players who preceded him, combining athleticism, dunking ability, and transitional play in a way that hasn’t been seen before.

While Wembanyama and Giannis possess different molds and skill sets, Anthony expressed excitement about Wembanyama’s potential, especially considering it’s his debut season. With his extraordinary height and developing skills, Wembanyama has set his sights on a successful rookie campaign and a potential Rookie of the Year title.

As Wembanyama continues to acclimate to the NBA, the basketball world eagerly anticipates the evolution of his game and the impact he will have on the league.

Victor Wembanyama Can Be The Rich Man’s Version Of Kevin Durant

Victor Wembanyama, the highly touted rookie selected as the No. 1 pick by the Spurs in the 2023 NBA Draft, is drawing comparisons to the legendary Kevin Durant. Picture this: Kevin Durant, a 6-11 wing player with guard-like agility and a lethal shooting touch. Now, imagine a richer version of that mold in the form of Victor Wembanyama, who stands at an imposing 7-4 and brings a two-way prowess to the game, excelling particularly in rim protection.

Wembanyama’s physical attributes and playing style evoke memories of Durant, who has been widely regarded as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. Both players share the ability to move with the agility of guards despite their towering height, and Wembanyama’s additional inch advantage only adds to his potential dominance on the court. When we examine their rookie statistics side by side, the parallels become even more intriguing.

In his debut NBA season, Durant posted rookie averages of 20.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. He displayed his scoring ability with a shooting efficiency of 43.0% from the field and 28.8% from beyond the arc. Durant’s impact on the offensive end was undeniable, setting the stage for a career that would see him become one of the most prolific scorers in league history.

Now, fast forward to Victor Wembanyama’s rookie campaign. The 7-4 sensation has made an immediate impact, showcasing a diverse skill set reminiscent of Durant. Wembanyama’s rookie stats boast impressive numbers, averaging 18.5 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. His defensive prowess is evident in his remarkable 3.0 blocks per game, highlighting an elite rim protection ability.

In terms of shooting efficiency, Wembanyama maintains a 43.5% success rate from the field and a 27.9% mark from three-point range. While his three-point shooting slightly trails Durant’s rookie numbers, Wembanyama compensates with an impressive double-double average and shot-blocking proficiency.

The comparison extends beyond mere stature and mobility; it delves into their offensive skill sets, with Wembanyama showcasing a shooting prowess akin to Durant’s ability to light up the scoreboard from anywhere on the floor. As a 7-4 player, Wembanyama’s shooting range and accuracy present a unique challenge for defenders.

Moreover, what sets Wembanyama apart as a “rich man’s version” of Durant is his formidable defensive presence, particularly in rim protection. Even at the early stages of his career, Wembanyama has demonstrated elite shot-blocking abilities, making him a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor.

As the NBA community eagerly watches Wembanyama’s debut season unfold, the excitement and anticipation surrounding his potential as a rich man’s Kevin Durant continue to grow. If he can live up to the comparisons and harness his unique combination of size, skills, and defensive prowess, Wembanyama has the potential to leave an indelible mark on the league, much like his esteemed predecessor, Durant.