On April 2nd, 2023, Victor Wembanyama shocked the sports world with a feat of athleticism that left on-lookers astonished and NBA executives wishing they could sacrifice everything to get him.
In the second quarter of a game between Metropolitans 92 and AS Monaco, Wembanyama found himself one-on-one with a defender from well outside the three-point line.
After his initial move to the basket was thwarted, Wembanyama had to improvise. Following a series of crossovers and hesitation moves, “Wemby” executed a challenging step-back 3-pointer under duress to beat the shot clock with only 1.8 seconds remaining—an impressive accomplishment in itself especially for someone in his 7 foot 4 inch frame.
Yet, it was what followed next that caused a sensation online.
Realizing immediately that his attempt was off-target, Wembanyama swiftly planted himself as he came back to the ground and dashed towards the paint with three quick strides, knowing exactly where his own missed shot would land—well before anyone else in the arena comprehended what was about to transpire.
Demonstrating an unparalleled blend of keen instincts, explosive leaping ability, and flowing grace, Wembanyama fully extended his 8-foot wingspan several feet from the restricted area to emphatically slam home his rebound with one hand. This amazing feat was achieved all while absorbing a forceful blow to the face from his defender's right arm at the same moment.
On the JJ Reddick podcast, Victor admits that it was the standout play of his career up until that point, and recalls a story of former teammates, months earlier, making a bet on whether or not it would ever happen.
The sneakers have been reviewed by Sports Investors Authentication. The pair is an apparent match to April 2nd, 2023, against AS Monaco. The pair was likely worn in this game, however, it is inconclusive due to a lack of media.
Due to the strong provenance and likely match to April 2nd, 2023, Sotheby’s believes these sneakers were worn on the attributed date.
Going Deeper | Victor Wembanyama
Perhaps LeBron James said it best, "We’re labeling like this unicorn thing—everybody’s been a unicorn over the last few years...But he’s more like an alien—no one has seen anyone as tall as he is but as fluid and as graceful as he is on the floor.”
Wemby responded humbly, “First of all, I’m really glad he said that because I didn’t like to be called a unicorn... I like it because it’s just something not from this world. I like being called an alien, yeah. It’s really what I’m working to be—something unique and original.”
Only since LeBron James has there been this type of hype and anticipation regarding an incoming rookie. Sports Illustrated's March 2023 cover proclaimed, "Why a Parisian Prodigy Is the Best NBA Prospect in a Generation." In a short amount of time, the hype appears to be warranted, with Wemby performing incredible dunks, passes, and blocked shots during his first season in the NBA.
The Number 1 Pick
On May 16th, 2023 the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Draft Lottery for the third time in franchise history, earning the right to select first and secure a franchise player that will shape the team’s success for years to come. A month later, on June 22, they selected Victor Wembanyama, a 19-year-old professional player from France with a height of 7’4'' and an 8-foot wingspan. His raw natural physical talents were noticeable at age 14, and in just a few years was already projected as the #1 pick in the draft.
Wemby gained his first professional experience with Nanterre 92 at age 16, eventually signing a contract for three years with ASVEL in the EuroLeague, where his game began to rapidly develop. After his first season, he opted out of contract to sign with Metropolitans 92 of the LNB Pro A League, catching the attention of the American media while playing two exhibition games against NBA G-League ignite, where he dominated both games scoring 37 and 36 points, respectively, putting him on the NBA map. He proceeded to dominate the league in the 2022-2023 season, winning many accolades including becoming the youngest to win League MVP.
At 7’4”, Wemby is considered the tallest in the NBA at the time of his debut at age 19, already being compared to the NBA’s top long-range shooters, ball handlers, shot blockers, and passers. The scouts describe him as offensively skilled both in the paint and on the perimeter, with impressive dribbling and ball control for a man of his size. He also rates high defensively, with the ability to pivot and move smoothly, and his significant height advantage makes him a premier shot blocker.
Wemby won the 2023-2024 Rookie of the Year, was named to the All-Defensive 1st Team, All-Rookie First Team, and led the league in blocks. He was named to the 2024 French Olympic Team as well.
