It is expected to be a thrilling showdown and a true test of skills for the newcomer right from the start. Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks will be up against Victor Wembanyama, the top pick in the June draft, in his first NBA game on Oct. 25 at their home court. The talented French player was selected as the first overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs. Now that the NBA has unveiled its schedule, we can finally examine some of the important matchups in the 2023-24 season.
The forthcoming season for Wembanyama and the Spurs comprises five of the most captivating matches. Here’s when they will take place, and these highly anticipated games are definitely worth marking on your calendar. With Wembanyama being one of the most acclaimed talents in recent history, every game he plays will undoubtedly attract a great deal of attention, both when playing at home and away.
Therefore, both Doncic and Kyrie Irving will undoubtedly attempt to assess his proficiency as a shot-blocker, yet his defensive abilities will undeniably be challenged in the interior. Wembanyama should not encounter too much difficulty in scoring points against Dallas due to their lack of size to combat the towering 7-3 giant. This matchup promises to be captivating, and all attention will be focused on Wemby to observe his performance in his inaugural significant trial. It is his debut game, it will be broadcasted nationally, and he will be facing off against the esteemed international prospect, Doncic.
Initial confrontation against Chet Holmgren: Spurs facing Thunder – November 14
There could be many matchups in which both of them could have long careers.
Wembanyama vs. LeBron: Lakers at Spurs – December 13th
LeBron James and Anthony Davis will have a tough test in December as they face off against Wembanyama, who has been praised highly in the past few years. Wemby will make his debut against the Lakers in December, and there has been a lot of talk about the matchup. Wembanyama is often compared to an alien, and LeBron James has spoken highly of him.
Wembanyama vs. Scoot Henderson: San Antonio Spurs at Portland Trail Blazers – December 28
We won’t have to wait too long to see these two face off, as it is getting early on the calendar. Luckily, there are countless storylines about this matchup, and many have already tabbed Wembanyama as the Rookie of the Year for this season. Henderson has also made the bold claim that he will be the future face of the Portland team, depending on whether he can get a trade request sorted out and land Damian Lillard. Henderson figures to be an electric guard and a compliment to Lillard, if he ever joins the Blazers. “He’s a really great player,” said Wembanyama, who was drafted as the overall No. 1 pick prior to Henderson.
Number 1 versus Number 2: Hornets at Spurs – January 12th
Wembanyama emerged as the obvious choice, in contrast to past draft years where there was some disagreement about who should be selected as the top overall pick. However, the Hornets faced a deliberation between Miller and Henderson as to whom they should select. Therefore, in mid-January, we will have the opportunity to witness a showdown between the top two draft picks, as Charlotte ultimately chose Miller. Hopefully, by the time this game approaches, he will have found his groove in Charlotte, considering Miller’s underwhelming performance in the Summer League.
