This is an open thread about Victor Wembanyama, a 17-year-old French basketball player who has been making headlines in the sport recently.
At 7’2″ (2.18m) tall, Wembanyama is one of the most promising young players in the world, with a rare combination of size, length, and skill that has drawn comparisons to NBA superstar Kevin Durant.
Recently, Wembanyama led his team, France, to a gold medal at the FIBA U18 European Championship, averaging 20.4 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game. He was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and was also selected to the All-Star Five.
However, despite his immense talent, many fans and analysts are expressing concern for Wembanyama’s well-being, both on and off the court.
At just 17 years old, Wembanyama is still developing physically and mentally, and some worry that the pressure and expectations placed on him could have negative effects. He has already been the subject of intense media scrutiny and speculation about his future, with some sources suggesting he could become the number one overall pick in the NBA draft in a few years’ time.
Furthermore, at his height, Wembanyama may face health risks associated with gigantism, a condition characterized by excessive growth and hormonal imbalances. Some have called for caution in his development and training in order to prioritize his long-term health.
Despite these concerns, many fans and analysts are also excited about what Wembanyama could accomplish in the coming years. He has already dominated at the junior level and has shown flashes of brilliance against professional competition in Europe.
