The San Antonio Spurs center is one of the most hyped rookies in recent history.
Arguably with the exception of LeBron James, there hasn't been this much hype for a rookie in the NBA like the one surrounding San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama.
It is not without reason. With the Spurs—THE SPURS!—languishing in the bottom in the last couple of years, the arrival of Wembanyama as the first overall pick has been touted as the next turning point for the squad, much like what legends David Robinson and Tim Duncan did.
One who definitely knows the pressure of carrying a franchise is former Houston Rockets star Yao Ming. Like Wemby, he was also a top overall pick (the first player from Asia) and was tasked to turn the fortunes of a bottom-dwelling team.
Yao, who played eight seasons in the NBA, said he's been very impressed with the 19-year-old Wembanyama, according to a report by Reuters.
"I never see a big guy like, you know, (who) can do such a thing like he does," said Yao. "In a scout report where we say 'This guy's height, his wingspan, and his capabilities' and 'He looks like, let's say, a former somebody,' you know."
Wemby is so much of a versatile unicorn, that the eight-time NBA All-Star, who faced numerous talented big men during his heyday, couldn't think of someone who resembles the Spurs newcomer.
"I don't know who shall I put up (beside him). (There's) no comparing," added Yao, who was inducted to the FIBA Hall of Fame this year, along with Filipino great Caloy Loyzaga.
Now the president of the Basketball Association of China, Yao is more exposed to international talent. He was a close witness to Gilas Pilipinas' upset of China in the semifinals of the Asian Games early this month and visited Manila during the FIBA World Cup last August.
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That's why the gentle giant is aware that Wembanyama, who first broke into the scene with France in international competitions, will have quite the journey as one of the most-watched basketball figures in the NBA and in the global game for years to come.
"He has his own expedition to go (on)," said Yao. "My experience probably from 20 years ago, I'm not sure is still fit for today. So I just wish him all good luck."