Don't Panic: Growing Pains for Victor Wembanyama in Spurs' Loss to Mavericks

On opening night, the San Antonio Spurs' superstar appeared off his game. But there's no need for concern.

Oct 24, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31) knocks the ball away from San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The San Antonio Spurs’ season opener against the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday didn’t deliver the storybook debut some fans might have hoped for, ending in a 120-109 loss.

Still, there were moments that offered a glimpse into the potential of this young Spurs team. Jeremy Sochan and Julian Champagnie shared the team lead with 18 points apiece, while veteran Harrison Barnes delivered a reliable 17 points on an efficient 7-of-10 shooting night.

Rookie Stephon Castle also impressed, scoring eight points with five assists and three rebounds in limited minutes, showing composure on both ends of the floor.

But if we’re being honest, all eyes were on Victor Wembanyama—and his sophomore debut left Spurs fans wanting.

The 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Yea put up 17 points, but his shooting struggles stood out with a mere 5-of-18 from the field, including just 1-of-8 from beyond the arc.

He had four turnovers, some awkward moments in the post, and lacked that explosive edge many expected. Growing pains? Probably, but Wembanyama isn’t looking for excuses.

Oct 24, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) looks to move the ball past Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber (42) during the second quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

READ MORE: Spurs Fall 120-109 to Mavericks, Wembanyama Struggles to Find Rhythm

“It’s a struggle,” he admitted postgame. “None of us really have played four games since [the] middle of the summer for me. Conditioning is not an excuse. I’ll have different weapons. We need to know when to use them. So, for the missed shots, it’s more about getting used to taking shots in a game setting.”

The Mavericks clearly devised a game plan to put significant pressure on Wembanyama, sending multiple defenders at him whenever he touched the ball. While this may have limited his effectiveness, it’s essential to remember that one game does not define a player’s season.

For now, it’s important to view this opening night as a learning experience rather than a cause for alarm.

The Spurs have a long season ahead, and Wembanyama will have ample opportunities to showcase his talents.

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