Spurs Rookie Victor Wembanyama Draws Hall-of-Fame Comparison

In a recent league analysis, Bleacher Report compared some of the NBA's young stars to former Hall-of-Famers, drawing similarities between Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama and a former Lakers legend.

Just eight days away from the San Antonio Spurs' media day, the hype surrounding Victor Wembanyama is approaching an all-time high. 

But if it hadn't already reached its peak, adding a Hall-of-Fame comparison to the mix just might do the trick. And according to Bleacher Report, Wembanyama has one.

San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama / © Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

When looking for a Hall-of-Fame comparison, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar most closely fits the bill," the site wrote. "With his similar size, massive wingspan and ability to control a game on both ends of the court ... Wembanyama could be that now." 

No, the 7-4 rookie hasn't played a single regular-season game for the Spurs, but that doesn't mean any and all comparisons are null and void. In two Summer League appearances, Wembanyama showed his elite defensive awareness — recording eight blocks — but also his ceiling on offense. 

The rookie's 3-point shot needs work before it can really be a dangerous aspect of his game, but finding a rhythm and working on that off of the court won't be hard. That being said, however, perimeter shooting isn't essential to Wembanyama finding success. 

"There was no three-point line for the first 10 seasons of Abdul-Jabbar's career," Bleacher Report said. "And even after one was added in 1979-80, the big man only went 1-of-18 from deep over his final 10 years. He did almost all of his work in the paint, operating with his back to the basket and using the glass to perfection." 

If Wembanyama decides to focus on scoring inside, while still retaining his defensive stature, he could still make a strong impact on San Antonio's dual-production, especially with his Abdul-Jabbar-like frame.

"Abdul-Jabbar stood 7-2 and weighed in at 225 pounds, [which is] not far off from Wembanyama's 7-4, 209-pound frame," Bleacher Report wrote. "Defensively, Abdul-Jabbar led the NBA in blocked shots four times, making 11 All-Defensive teams in the process.

"Wembanyama could have a similar impact on that end, as his 8-foot wingspan and overall mobility is going to wreak havoc on opponents from all over the court."

Sure, Wembanyama has a long way to go before he can be put in categories like the ones Abdul-Jabbar frequents. He's got potential, however. All he has to do is prove it.