“Can do everything Wemby can, but even better!” Shaquille O’Neal doubles down on ‘lazy’ Bol Bol comparison to Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama and his rise in the NBA has been nothing short of phenomenal.

“Can do everything Wemby can, but even better!” Shaquille O’Neal doubles down on ‘lazy’ Bol Bol comparison to Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama, Shaquille O'Neal and Bol Bol (Via Sports Illustrated/Men's Journal/Marca)

The rise of Victor Wembanyama in the NBA has been nothing short of monumental. From the first pick of the draft to quickly establishing himself as the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year this season, he has wowed fans and experts alike. As is often the case with great talent, comparisons are inevitable. However, it seems that not everyone is on board with the comparisons being made, particularly NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal.

Shaq made some controversial comments on the latest episode of his The Big Podcast with Shaq, on the comparison between Bol Bol and Wemby. Highlighting Bol Bol’s untapped potential and unique talents on the court despite his critique of Bol’s work ethic, Shaq argued that he is capable of doing everything Wembanyama can, and more.

Shaq said the following, backing Bol Bol in the debate: 

Bol Bol is lazy as f***, but Bol Bol can do everything Wemby can do and even a little better: dribble behind the back, shoot the three, nice handle, the floater game… he’s just lazy.

Although the comparison may seem contentious, it has raised intriguing questions about Victor Wembanyama and his ability to compete with the legends of the game. While the argument is still open, Wemby has just started, and will first need a servicable team around him to succeed.

Victor Wembanyama’s rise into the NBA

In 2023, the NBA awaited the arrival of a new star in the making – Victor Wembanyama. Touted as a player with immense potential, Wembanyama was chosen as the first pick in the draft by the Spurs. The anticipation surrounding him was palpable and the player definitely didn’t disappoint.

Victor Wembanyama's debut for San Antonio Spurs (Via Sports Illustrated)
Victor Wembanyama’s debut for San Antonio Spurs. (Via Sports Illustrated)

Wembanyama’s first game was a spectacle, attracting a staggering 2.99 million viewers, the highest for an opening night game in 11 years, according to the NBA. As the young Frenchman showcased his skills, finishing with an impressive stat line of 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists, there was no doubt a star was born in the NBA.

Since then, Wembanyama’s rise has been nothing short of astronomical. He is currently averaging 20.4 points, 10.1 rebounds, a 2.9 per game, and has been a sensation. From making his records to carrying the team, there is seemingly only one destination for him – and that’s glory.

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