Victor Wembanyama just shut down a major criticism before playoffs even begin

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama ended the 2025-26 season on a high note. He scored at least 40 points in three of his last five games of the season. Not only that, but he became the first player since Shaquille O'Neal to average at least 25 points and three blocks per game.

His elite play at such a young age has led to talk about him being the next superstar to lead the NBA into a new era. Nevertheless, there has been criticism surrounding Wembanyama being the next potential face of the NBA.

While no one doubts his talent, analysts such as Stephen A. Smith have questioned whether an international player could actually be the next face of the league.

Nevertheless, after the NBA's release of the top-selling jerseys for this season, it's clear that he is already well on his way.

Victor Wembanyama is already a global superstar

Wembanyama ranks a more than respectable fourth behind Steph Curry, Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson. However, it's important to note that Wembanyama ranks ahead of LeBron James and Anthony Edwards.

While LeBron has been the face of the NBA for more than two decades, he is nearing the end of his reign. That makes Wemby surpassing him in jersey sales all the more important.

Perhaps more important is the fact that he also beats out Edwards in jersey sales. Edwards is widely seen as Wembanyama's rival for the best player in the NBA mantle.

That being said, he is two years older than Wembanyama and doesn't have the same international appeal. Wembanyama hails from France but has taken the NBA by storm, commanding attention wherever he goes.

Not only that, but he leads an interesting life off the court, only adding to the aura surrounding him.

Victor Wembanyama is the next face of the NBA

Heading into his first playoffs, Wembanyama will have even more eyes on him. All playoff games are nationally televised, and San Antonio will likely spend most of the playoffs playing on NBC.

More exposure will only lead to bigger things for Wembanyama. The NBA is also seemingly positioning him to be their next superstar.

San Antonio has seen a sharp increase in nationally televised games and had roughly 20 games broadcast this season.

Hopefully San Antonio will have a deep playoff run with Wembanyama carrying them. At just 22 years old, he could be an elite player for years to come. The NBA should certainly hope so given his already impressive jersey sales and marketability.

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