As NBA Summer League took the center stage, the hoops community witnessed several rookies play on the hardwood for the first time. Importantly, fans eagerly awaited the 2023 No.1 Draft pick, Victor Wembanyama’s game ever since the hype around him skyrocketed. However, during Wemby’s opening game at Las Vegas on Friday night, Michael Jordan’s 22-year-old Charlotte Hornets player dwarfed the rising star with a thunderous move. 

The San Antonio Spurs took on the Hornets at the Sphere arena amid a rousing crowd. Even though it was a contest between the rookies, fans created hype around the game because of the #1 and #2 draft picks clash. Despite the Spurs’ domination in the game, a resounding move from a Hornets’ star caught the fans’ attention. 

Victor Wembanyama received a salty welcome to the NBA world

The 19-year-old French baller took over the hearts of the US fans even before stepping his foot in an NBA arena. However, the 7 ‘4 player’s first game in the summer league wasn’t the greatest opener for a much-awaited star.

Despite his underwhelming stat, the Hornets’ center Kai Jones destroyed Wemby’s reputation with a disrespectful move. 

During the third quarter, Jones alley-ooped a poster dunk over the seven-foot giant, leaving the crowd in utter disbelief. Even though the Spurs were much ahead of the Hornets in the game, this particular move set the internet blazing.

What added insult to injury was Wembanyama’s performance. He scored 9 points in his 27-minute game with a poor field percentage of 15% in 13 attempts. The rising star seemed unsettled throughout the game and it reflected in his stat. However, he produced 8 rebounds and 5 heroic blocks to save his reputation. 

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But by then, fans had already set the social media afire, trashing the Spurs star on his disappointing debut.

“Biggest draft bust in NBA history”

The video clip of Kai Jones’ poster dunk triggered a torrent of comments. Several fans expressed their disappointment with Wemby’s underwhelming debut.

One user said, “LMAOOOOO NAWW wemby gotta be the most overrated prospect of all time.” Here are some reactions from fans. 

Apart from Wemby, other stars in the starting 5 scored in double digits. Notably, Julian Champagnie led the offense with 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. 

The Spurs have two more games left in the summer league. This is a much-needed space for the 19-year-old rising star’s redemption. 

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But, will Wemby live up to NBA expectations? Will he actually become the overrated prospect? Or will the towering draft defy the dunk with his resounding comeback. All eyes on the next match now.