Early NBA season promo proves exactly how league feels about Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama has been passing the superstar test at every turn since before he entered the NBA. It starts with a mentality far beyond his years. For some with the kind of advanced mindset he shows, it earns them nicknames like "granny or grandpa," but for Wemby, it means being the only second-year player featured in the NBA's 2024-25 season tip-off commercial.

Being featured in a commercial like this is a huge nod to who the NBA expects Wemby to become. He is the only one in the ad who isn't an established player with all-star and playoff appearances. Yet nobody will wonder why he is there unless they're being intentionally obtuse, which isn't outside the realm of possibility. Just be prepared to ignore those people.

The NBA wants Wembanyama as the face of the league

If you really think about the efforts of the league over the past few decades, their mission to globalize the game has been a successful one—but it's ongoing. Victor's demeanor and drive make him the perfect candidate to take over for LeBron James as the face of the league.

Sure, you can't see around corners, but there is a high probability that you'll never have to worry about him getting into trouble. He has the determination to be great, which is inspiring to people everywhere, especially kids who will see the heights you can reach in the NBA, even if you come from a different country.

The discussion of who will be the next "it" guy has been going on for some time now. LeBron only has so many years left, and none of the younger guys have separated themselves in any meaningful way. There are plenty of players you like, but the "face of the league" isn't just about being a talented player.

You have to represent the NBA in a professional, determined manner—be a talented player who's serious about winning and who people can look up to. It's all important, and Wembanyama has it in spades.

He has three lines if you count Bill Land's classic "Oh mama, Wembanyama!" feature, and I surely do. The interesting part is that he's in the commercial with Kawhi Leonard, whom he just revealed he wants to dunk on, Luka Doncic and Anthony Edwards. All three of these stars are on the docket in the brutal eight-game stretch the Spurs have to start the season.

It will be stressful without Devin Vassell, but it should be fun, so in the words of San Antonio's franchise star and future face of the league—everybody ready?