The number one overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft, drafted by the San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wenbanyama, is setting his sights on winning an NBA championship ring.
Considered one of the game’s most promising prospects, the 19-year-old Frenchman’s selection is highly coveted, reminiscent of LeBron James’ draft in 2003.
Standing at an impressive 7ft 5in with an 8ft wingspan, Wembanyama has ambitious aspirations. “My goal is to absorb as much knowledge as possible because I am determined to win that championship ring,” expressed Wembanyama.
The NBA draft comprises two rounds of 30 picks, with teams choosing players based on their performance in the previous season. Consequently, the underperforming teams get the privilege of selecting first and have access to the top emerging talents.
The 2023 draft took place in Brooklyn, where NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced the picks.
ALSO READ: Belgian champions Antwerp set to sign promising 16-year-old Nigerian striker
“My goal is to try and learn as much as possible because I want to win that ring,” said Wembanyama.
“This is accomplishing something that I have been dreaming of my whole life.”
“Hearing that sentence from Adam Silver, I’ve dreamed of it so much that I have to cry, man.”
ALSO READ: UEFA slams Mourinho with four-match ban over Anthony Taylor abuse
French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Wembanyama on becoming “the first Frenchman to be the number one pick in the NBA draft.”
Macron took to social media and added, “You’re already making us dream, Victor Wembanyama. No doubt about it: you’ll change the game!
During the previous season, Wembanyama turned out for his Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 in France. In 44 games, he averaged an impressive 20.6 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.0 blocked shots, and 2.5 assists.
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich expressed his excitement about acquiring Wembanyama, stating, “We’re thrilled that we were able to bring Victor on board.”
“He’s obviously a heck of a talent, a very mature young man. But just like with every draft pick, whether it’s the first pick or the 27th pick, or the 38th pick, we have a responsibility to each and everyone to try to create an environment where they can reach the best success possible for them.
“We’re going to get him on the court and we’re going to see him play, and we’ll go from there.“
