Victor Wembanyama (2m24) weighed down… by his size? Tony Parker cash: “I don’t think he…

By Pierre-Andréa Fraile | Sports journalist

Unique profile in the history of the NBA, Victor Wembanyama already manages to make his size a lethal weapon on the NBA floors. But while Draymond Green mentioned his 2m24 as a potential handicap, Tony Parker came to give his point of view.

Before he arrives in NBA — and even before he began his professional career, the fears surrounding his health were numerous and noisy. Over time, Victor Wembanyama nevertheless managed to silence them. Thus, despite a seemingly fragile physique, he has so far missed “only” 16 of the 122 matches played by Spurs since his arrival in their ranks.

We must therefore believe that the preparation work he does is bearing fruit. Without this, the high-intensity efforts he imposes on his body at 2m24 would undoubtedly have exponentially increased the above total. However, until now, its gigantic size appears more as an advantage than a disadvantage. This, even if Draymond Green recently sounded the opposite.

Tony Parker talks about the size and influence of Wembanyama

A long-time teammate of Stephen Curry, Green believes Wembanyama will never be able to have the same impact as the Chief on basketball fans. In question, his large size, which would prevent observers from identifying with him and being inspired by his game. Comments which were recently reported to Tony Parker on the show Stephen Brunch and which the latter went against:

Tony Parker : I think he can have a big impact and have his own era. He is unique and he will create his own story. I don’t see why he couldn’t create his own dynasty, in his own way. Each player had their personality, whether it was Magic (Johnson), (Larry) Bird, (Michael) Jordan, LeBron James, Steph Curry… They all brought something to our sport and I think Wemby can do it in his own way .

Convinced of the power of attraction of the young interior, Parker was also questioned about the fact that he plays at times unsuitable for the general French public. But again, he does not see this as a brake on his influence:

Tony Parker : Frankly, I don’t think he has any reputation problems. Everyone knows him and knows that he is the best French player. (…)

When I was playing, I never felt a lack of exposure. The NBA is known worldwide and in France, our sport is still very well represented. For me, he is on the same level as (Antoine) Dupont or Teddy Riner. (…) And then, with social networks and the work of the NBA, you can watch the matches whenever you want. There are fewer and fewer people watching them live.

Whether despite his XXL size or the time difference, Tony Parker does not see any factor possibly limiting Victor Wembanyama’s impact in France and on the basketball world. To see if this dissonant opinion will make its way to Draymond Green.