Victor Wembanyama's Early Season Struggles: A Deeper Look
In the opening weeks of the 2024-25 NBA season, Victor Wembanyama's performance has been a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Wearing the San Antonio Spurs jersey, the towering Frenchman is under the microscope as he navigates the challenges of transitioning to the NBA's unique style of play. However, his early numbers reveal a player still finding his rhythm on the court.
Wembanyama's shooting from the perimeter has been a critical area of concern. In his first three games, he has landed only six of his 24 jump shots. Even more concerning is his performance from beyond the arc, where he's missed 14 of 18 three-point attempts. These struggles come in the wake of a summer where Wembanyama led the French national team to a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, hitting just 28% of his three-point attempts during the tournament. Such numbers suggest a recurring difficulty in translating his shooting prowess to game situations.
The Importance of Rhythm and Conditioning
While some might speculate on possible injuries or fatigue, Wembanyama dismisses these notions, attributing his early season struggles to a lack of rhythm. "The conditioning is not an excuse. For the missed shots ... it's just taking shots in rhythm. That's the most important for me. I think I'm comfortable in every area of the floor to shoot, but at the same time, if I'm not in rhythm, any area of the floor I'll miss," explained Wembanyama. His remarks indicate a focus on improving flow and timing rather than a comprehensive overhaul of his techniques.
As the season progresses, rhythm will be especially crucial given the high volume of three-point shooting now prevalent in the NBA. This season, nine teams are averaging over 40 three-point attempts per game—mirroring the kind of offensive barrage we've seen from the Boston Celtics, who set the tone with 42.5 attempts per game last season.
Comparative Benchmarks and Team Dynamics
For context, the evolution of three-point shooting is exemplified by players like Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns. Edwards has more than doubled his attempts from last season, now taking over 13 per game with an impressive 41.5% conversion rate. Towns, known for his consistent accuracy, has increased his precision to an eye-popping 66% from three-point territory this season. However, with Towns averaging fewer attempts—just six in three games—due to a strategic reduction in overall shot volume from 15.3 to 9.3 per game, he underscores the importance of quality over quantity.
The Spurs, much like Jalen Brunson's approach with his teammates, will need to ensure synergy on the court, capitalizing on every player's strengths. As Brunson aptly puts it, "It's on me as a teammate to make sure we're all on the same page and that everyone's eating. I've got to be better when it comes to that. I've got to adjust, and I've got to see [Towns]." His statement underscores the essence of team chemistry vital for facilitating Wembanyama's integration and effectiveness.
Looking Forward
The journey for Victor Wembanyama is just beginning. Last season, post-All-Star break, he converted 31% of his jump shots and 33% of his three-point attempts—figures that provide some historical reassurance of his ability to improve as the season wears on. Considering his limited participation in preseason games, Wembanyama and the Spurs would do well to remain patient, allowing the young star to acclimate fully to NBA play.
In a league that thrives on rapid adaptation and fierce competition, mastery of rhythm and team dynamics will be key for Wembanyama. As he and the Spurs continue to adjust, the broader NBA landscape will keep watching, hopeful that his undeniable potential will soon translate into tangible success on the court.