Latest NBA rookie ladder proves Spurs fans know ball

The latest NBA.com rookie ladder has been released, with Victor Wembanyama coming in at number one for three consecutive weeks—a trend that tells a story.
Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren
Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren / Ronald Cortes/GettyImages
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In a league where the San Antonio Spurs find themselves battling the odds with the worst record in franchise history, there's a shining beacon of hope in the form of Victor Wembanyama. The rookie sensation has not only secured the top spot on the NBA.com rookie ladder for the third consecutive week but is doing so with a flair that demands attention.

Over the past week, Wembanyama has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging a staggering 20.4 points per game, 10.1 rebounds per game, and 3.2 blocks per game. This impressive performance not only solidifies his rookie dominance but also showcases a level of skill that transcends his status as a newcomer.

The differences between Wembanyama and Holmgren have always been clear

Chet Holmgren, holding the second spot for three weeks running, has undoubtedly showcased his talents with averages of 17.1 ppg, 7.3 rpg, and 2.6 bpg. However, the stark contrast between the two rookies becomes evident when considering team dynamics, which were on display last night.

The Oklahoma City Thunder boasts the best record in the conference at 31-13, yet it's becoming increasingly clear that Wembanyama's individual brilliance outshines the team-oriented success of Holmgren. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a top-three MVP candidate. OKC has the second-highest three-point percentage in the league. Meanwhile, Victor is the best player on a Spurs team that shoots the ball poorly as a group ranking 29th in the NBA.

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Spurs fans have long championed Wembanyama as the standout rookie, emphasizing his all-around impact on the court. The recent string of first-place finishes on the NBA.com rookie ladder validates what Spurs faithful have known all along: Wemby is not just a rising star; he's the brightest one in the rookie constellation.

While Holmgren delivers great plays, Wembanyama's on-court presence is nothing short of a spectacle, as he makes at least one play to drop your jaw each game. Leading all rookies in points, blocks, rebounds, and steals, he not only commands the court but also demands the undivided attention of defenses as the number one option.

In a season that may seem challenging for San Antonio, Wembanyama's ascendance remains a silver lining. The future is bright, Spurs fans. It is hard to know if the rest of this core will be a part of a championship run, but it is difficult to imagine a window not opening with the type of talent Wemby brings.

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