He has been waiting for it since the start of the season, it is now done: Victor Wembanyama has been named Western Conference rookie of the month by the NBA.
In November and December, the Frenchman was each time beaten by his great rival for the title of rookie of the year, Chet Holmgren.
The pivot of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who has produced statistics below his standards for several weeks, was therefore beaten for the first time.
It must be said that Victor Wembanyama was exceptional in January, averaging 24 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists.
His playing time, however, remained reduced, only 26.8 minutes per game, but he managed to help the San Antonio Spurs win, a rare feat since the start of the season.
In January, Gregg Popovich's team won five of its 17 games played.
A balance sheet which is improving but which remains weak.
The best of January Western Conference @Kia Rookie of the Month Victor Wembanyama!
#KiaROTM
24.0 PPG |
9.6 RPG |
3.4 BPG pic.twitter.com/uoyLI6rYVl
— NBA (@NBA) February 1, 2024
This title of rookie of the month confirms that the Frenchman is in the race to be named best beginner of the year next April.
Despite similar profiles, the two favorites have performed very differently since the start of the season.
Much more popular than his rival, Victor Wembanyama could do well, especially since he is truly the leader of his team, which is not Chet Holmgren, who plays in a much better team.
In the Eastern Conference, the 2nd pick of the last draft, Brandon Miller, was also elected for the first time of the year.
As in the West, it is the same player who won the first two titles: Jaime Jazquez Jr, the Miami Heat player.