Spurs star Victor Wembanyama achieves record Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard never did

Follow us on Google Discover

Victor Wembanyama put on a show in the San Antonio Spurs’ season opener, turning heads with a standout display that also broke a new NBA record.

There is growing expectation around the Spurs this year as Wembanyama continues to settle into his role as an emerging superstar.

Over the summer, he spent time working out with Hakeem Olajuwon and Kevin Garnett, putting extra focus on improving his defensive game.

While Wemby’s defence has never been in question, there have been doubts about whether his frame might hold him back against more physical opponents.

That did not seem to be an issue in the season opener, where he looked sharp and confident from the outset against the Dallas Mavericks.

Victor Wembanyama breaks Spurs opening night record with 40-point performance

Wembanyama opened the season with a statement game for the San Antonio Spurs, putting up 40 points, 15 rebounds, and three blocks.

He also broke the franchise record for most points scored on opening night, topping George Gervin’s mark of 39.

Wembanyama did not just break a record. He completely dominated the game. He found ways to excel even when faced with Dallas’s bigger line-ups, specifically designed to contain him.

The strong start suggests this could be a big year for the Frenchman. He looked comfortable facing defensive schemes built specifically to challenge him, and still managed to come out on top.

Spurs set sights on playoffs behind Victor Wembanyama

San Antonio have built a roster with enough talent to make a push for the postseason.

Wembanyama’s steady rise has already put him among the league’s top players, and there is growing belief he could be in the MVP conversation this year.

The West is crowded with teams chasing playoff spots, so nothing can be assumed.

• READ MORE: LeBron James shares honest take on Nuggets’ offseason signings and Russell Westbrook loss

If San Antonio want to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2019, they will need to be ready for a fight every game. There are no easy nights in this conference.