Looking back on most ridiculous Wembanyama conversation of 2023

Heading into the 2023 NBA draft, Victor Wembanyama was the clear number one overall pick. Coming out of France, the Alien was doing things that we had never seen before. Whether it was his insane ability to take defenders off the dribble while standing at 7'3", knocking down deep threes, or sending shots into the stands, the youngster was a diamond.

The Spurs held the first overall pick after a lucky lottery draw, and it appeared that Wembanyama was headed to San Antonio. However, not everyone would agree. Competing with the Frenchman to become the first overall pick was the G-League Ignite's own Scoot Henderson.

With his electric finishes, absurd athleticism, and upside as a lead ball handler, there were plenty of debates about who should be selected first overall. However, that doesn't mean these debates were warranted.

Victor Wembanyama was a generational prospect

If it wasn't clear then, it is very clear now; Victor Wembanyama is generational. All the signs pointed to this being the case when the 19-year-old was balling overseas. As a teenager, he was dominating his competition, showcasing all of the unique skills that he possesses. His defense alone made him intriguing enough to be selected first overall.

What took Wembanyama over the top was his three-point shooting. We have seen plenty of elite defenders enter the NBA draft and be selected with top picks, but what truly made him generational was his three-point shooting. Perhaps the only player to ever rain threes at 7-foot tall is Kevin Durant, and we all know how great he is. This talent is completely game-breaking and something you can't teach.

All of these skills were highlighted in France, even if he was still learning. He was by no means a complete product playing for the Metropolitans 92, but the evidence of him being the next one up was striking.

There should have never been a debate

So why exactly was there a debate? Honestly, I couldn't tell you. Henderson was by no means a lackluster prospect. While he hasn't lived up to the billing thus far in his NBA career, shades of an elite slashing point guard were most certainly there. Like Wembanyama, the bouncy guard was showcasing rare abilities.

While Henderson had the tools to be an NBA great, one major flaw set him back: his jumpshot. After two years in the league, the Trailblazer has yet to master practical shooting. Meanwhile, Victor is breaking records and embarrassing his opponents.

I sure hope that you weren't on the Henderson side of the debate because you would be looking pretty foolish right now. Even if Scoot can turn his career around, he will never sniff the accolades and success of Wembanyama. The decision was as easy as tying your shoe, and we should be glad that the Spurs were aware of that.