Victor Wembanyama’s evolution into a sharpshooter
The rookie’s latest success from beyond the arc is not a fluke.
It’s no secret that Victor Wembanyama has taken another leap in recent weeks, showcasing improvements on both ends of the court. The rookie has transformed into a remarkably reliable three-point shooter, impressively converting 40% on 5.21attempts per game over his last 20 outings.
Nightmarish fact: Victor is shooting 40.2% on 5.1 3PA/G over his last 20 games pic.twitter.com/kPEzGkvUtO
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) March 4, 2024
Moreover, since February 1st, only five players across the league have made more threes than the rookie while shooting 43% or more.
Since February 1st, only 5 players have made more threes than Wemby amongst players shooting 43% or better from distance.
All 5 of these players are at least a foot shooter than Wemby pic.twitter.com/pnPhTIUtPH
— WembyMuse (@Wemby_Muse) March 4, 2024
What makes this accomplishment even more unique is that all of those players are guards. It’s exceptional that Wemby, standing at an impressive 7’4”, is keeping up with these sharpshooters. His recent success from beyond the arc isn’t just a fluke; his shooting mechanics have always been solid since his arrival in the league, coupled with a consistent performance from the free-throw line, making over 80% of his attempts.
This latest addition to his already impressive arsenal makes him even more challenging to deal with. Opponents will constantly be strategizing ways to shut down the Frenchman, and it won’t be getting any easier. Sooner rather than later, the task of stopping Wemby will have us all resembling Rick Carlisle on a Sunday night.
rick pic.twitter.com/bOQnPsOC7i
— ⌚️ (@EFF0RTLES) March 4, 2024
— Hubie Talks Hoops (@HubieTalksHoops) March 4, 2024
Interesting to examine the evolution of the rookie’s shot chart. I firmly believe he should focus on taking more than 5.2 attempts at the rim, leveraging his sheer size and the ability to finish over everyone.
Wemby’s shot chart in 2023 vs. 2024:
Some observations:
— Less midrange FGA, more paint FGA in 2024
— Much higher 3PT% in 2024Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/6ig071AAKL
— WembyMuse (@Wemby_Muse) March 5, 2024
For the rookie, it’s more than just basketball; both on and off the court, Wemby serves as the ideal role model. Following Sunday’s home game, he created a special moment for a young fan.
Après sa nouvelle performance XXL (31 points à 11/17 aux tirs, 12 rebonds, 6 passes et 6 contres en 32 minutes), Victor Wembanyama a pris le temps de saluer les fans. pic.twitter.com/9s2eioeINR
— Théo Quintard (@TheoQuintard) March 4, 2024
More off the court footage showcasing the rookie engaging with attendees at the Spurs Champions Against Hunger fundraiser.
Wemby and fellow French rookie Sidy Cissoko making the rounds tonight at the #Spurs’ Champions Against Hunger fundraiser for the @safoodbank at the Victory Capital Performance Center. pic.twitter.com/k0jxpk56VT
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) March 2, 2024
I love this cover ahead of the Spurs game in Houston on Tuesday night. Let’s hope the alien is fit enough to play in H-town.
Excellent ce visuel des Spurs d’avant match pic.twitter.com/WM55rDRcf6
— Théo Quintard (@TheoQuintard) March 5, 2024