By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
San Antonio Spurs rookie star Victor Wembanyama hasn’t spent much time practicing with coach Gregg Popovich but he has already the utmost faith in him.
“It’s really special,” Wembanyama said about playing under Popovich, per Sports Illustrated. “I feel like he thinks this is going to be a special time, too. I could follow him with my eyes closed.”
“He cares a lot about me,” Wembanyama added on Popovich “He talks to me every day, and to me, this is just a special chance and experience. He’s has been so successful in his life … he knows how to do it.”
Popovich’s enormous collection of accolades is surely one reason that can enable instant trust by any player. There’s also the fact that the decorated coach has been integral in several players developing into Hall of Famers.
Look no further than Spurs legends Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker. The latter has been well acquainted with Wembanyama not only because they both hail from France but also since the player’s stint in Parker-owned ASVEL Villeurbanne.
Popovich saw Wembanyama playing in two Summer League games. While his debut wasn’t particularly pretty with a 2-of-13 night (but also five blocks and eight rebounds) he reacted by scoring 27 points and getting 12 rebounds plus three blocks in his second game.
Now, Wemby has chosen to “disappear from media” for the time being after getting quite busy doing interviews, event appearances and being involved in a weird incident with Brittney Spears . “In the past month, I think basketball wasn’t even 50% of my schedule. I can’t stand it. I know it’s a special moment in my life, but I’m glad it’s over … I just wanna hoop,” said the French superprospect.