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Victor Wembanyama had a stat line of 40 points in 26 minutes in the Spurs’ win over the Lakers, setting multiple records in the process.
The San Antonio Spurs defeated the Sacramento Kings 139-122 on Saturday night.
Victor Wembanyama finished with 28 points, 15 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks. He also threw down a highlight-reel dunk in the fourth quarter that had the crowd buzzing. After the game, reporters asked him about competing in the Dunk Contest. His response got everyone’s attention.
What Wembanyama Said About the Dunk Contest
GettySan Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama looks on. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images)
Wembanyama was asked about competing in the Dunk Contest.
His response was simple. “I’ll be in the dunk contest one day,” Wembanyama said.
The Dunk Contest has struggled to attract star talent in recent years. Most participants are role players or young prospects trying to build their brand. Wembanyama participating would change that.
At 7-foot-4, he possesses a combination of height, coordination, and athleticism that has never been seen before. His dunks in games are impressive because he barely leaves the floor and still finishes above the rim with ease. That creates a different kind of spectacle.
The question is when. Wembanyama said “one day” but did not commit to a specific year. The Spurs may prefer he waits until later in his career when injury concerns are less critical.
How Wembanyama Dominated the Kings
Wembanyama set the tone early against Sacramento.
The Spurs scored the first 11 points of the game. Wembanyama blocked three shots in the first 90 seconds. Sacramento fought back and trailed by just one point with less than five minutes remaining in the third quarter.
Wembanyama ended any hope of a comeback in the final minute of the third. He hit a three-pointer and assisted on another by Harrison Barnes to push the Spurs’ lead to 105-94 heading into the fourth. San Antonio then opened the fourth quarter with a 12-0 run and pushed the lead to 28.
The performance extended the Spurs’ winning streak to eight games and dropped Sacramento to a franchise-record 16 consecutive losses.
Final Word for the Spurs
Victor Wembanyama said he will participate in the Dunk Contest one day.
The Dunk Contest has lacked star power for years. Wembanyama participating would change that. Whether it happens next year or later in his career remains to be seen. But his willingness matters.
The Spurs are 39-16 and hold the second seed in the Western Conference. Wembanyama is averaging 25.1 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.8 blocks per game this season. He is playing at an MVP level.
When Wembanyama eventually participates in the Dunk Contest, it will draw significant interest. But for now, he is focused on winning games. And the Spurs are doing plenty of that.
Keith Watkins Keith Watkins is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers. He previously wrote for FanSided, NBA Analysis Network, and Last Word On Sports. Keith is based in Bangkok, Thailand. More about Keith Watkins
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