Spurs' Victor Wembanyama Playing Power Forward, Not Center - Why?

San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama will reportedly be playing the power forward position this year.

San Antonio Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama will be playing the power forward position when the 2023-24 NBA season begins.

"Wembanyama's a player that's going to have generational ability in the league," The Athletic's Shams Charania said. "Expect him to play power forward, the four position, to start off his NBA career. And the Spurs will look for Zach Collins to be a guy to provide size next to Victor Wembanyama in the front court."

Despite his 7-4 frame, Wembanyama is not expected to play at the center position, instead suiting up at power forward for San Antonio. 

USA Today

The Spurs drafted Wembanyama with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. He was previously with the Metropolitans 92, a French basketball team. In 34 games, he averaged 21.6 points per game, 10.4 rebounds per game and 2.4 assists per game along with 3.0 blocks per game.

At just 19 years old, Wembanyama is already being called a generational basketball prospect. He has drawn comparisons to the hype that surrounded stars like Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

This season, he could be playing at power forward alongside Collins at center. In 63 games last season, Collins averaged 11.6 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 22.9 minutes per game. San Antonio also has centers Gorgui Dieng, Khem Birch and Charles Bassey on its roster. 

Wembanyama and the Spurs will be in action again when the preseason begins and they host the Miami Heat on Oct. 13 at 7 p.m.