Wembanyama's Kawhi wish would be a dream come true for Spurs fans
Victor Wembanyama is no stranger to making headlines, and his latest comments are sure to grab the attention of Spurs fans everywhere. In a recent interview with CBS, the Spurs' young star revealed somewhat of a hitlist for posters, and one name stood out above the others: Kawhi Leonard.
Wembanyama was asked which players he wants to dunk on the most, and his list included defensive stalwarts Rudy Gobert, Jonathan Isaac, and, of course, Kawhi. Explaining his picks, Wemby said, "I think Kawhi [Leonard] would be because all these guys, I just respect them so much on the defensive end that it would be incredible to dunk on them."
Wemby posterizing Kawhi would be awesome to Spurs fans
For most players, this would just be a fun challenge. But for Spurs fans, it means so much more. Kawhi Leonard’s departure from San Antonio back in 2018 left a lasting mark on the city and the team. His exit was messy, and the way he forced his way out left many fans feeling betrayed.
Even though Kawhi was instrumental in the Spurs' 2014 championship run, the saga leading to his trade to Toronto has overshadowed his legacy in San Antonio.
Spurs fans hold their team close to their hearts. The Spurs organization has always been one of the classiest and most community-driven franchises in the NBA, and the city of San Antonio has taken pride in that.
Kawhi’s decision to leave—and how it unfolded—was seen as a disrespect to both the organization and the fans. Even with all of his accomplishments, there hasn’t been much room for forgiveness in the Alamo City.
That’s why the idea of Wembanyama dunking on Leonard is so tantalizing for Spurs fans. Sure, it’s just a highlight, but it represents something deeper. Beating Kawhi’s team is always a little sweeter, and seeing Wembanyama throw one down on him would feel like a win on multiple levels. It’s a small way to reclaim some of the pride that was lost when Kawhi left.
Wembanyama is entering his second season with the Spurs, and expectations are sky-high. The idea of him posterizing Kawhi might just be a fun goal, but it also symbolizes the passing of the torch from one Spurs era to another.
Wembanyama has the chance to lead the franchise back to glory, and making a statement against Leonard along the way would only add to his growing legend in San Antonio.
So, as Spurs fans gear up for the season, they’ll definitely have this matchup circled on their calendars. And if Wembanyama makes good on his wish, don’t be surprised if you hear cheers from Spurs fans around the world. It’s just another chapter in the long, complicated history between the team and Kawhi Leonard.