Shaquille O’Neal settles ‘ROTY’ debate between Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren

Shaquille O'Neal says Victor Wembanyama could be a great player but is still some way away from reaching full potential.

Shaquille O’Neal settles ‘ROTY’ debate between Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren

Chet Holmgren, Shaquille O'Neal and Victor Wembanyama. (Via SI)

The 2023 NBA rookie season has witnessed the rise of two exceptional young talents – Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, who have been nothing but exceptional. Both rookies, who made their debut this season, have made an impressive impact on their respective teams, leaving fans and experts in a heated debate about who deserves the prestigious Rookie of the Year (ROTY) award.

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And now, speaking on TNT’s Inside the NBA, basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal has stepped in to settle this “ROTY” debate, giving his expert opinion on the matter. When asked who would win the ROTY between the two, Shaq said:

It has to go to Victor. Team-wise, of course, Chet’s playing on a great team, the Spurs are not a great team. But, individually, slight edge to Victor.

While other panelists gave their reasonings, picking Wemby as well, Kenny asked whether the inclusion of Victor Wembanyama into the OKC would make them better. And the immediate answer was “Yes”.

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There is no shying away from the fact that both players have been exceptional for their teams. Victor Wembanyama for the San Antonio Spurs, who was also the first pick of the draft. And Chet Holmgren for Oklahoma City Thunders, who has been a revolution in their team. But only one player can take home the prestigious award. It is pretty clear which way Shaq is currently leaning towards.

Shaq reveals Wemby could be a “great player” but warns he has much to learn

NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal had shared his thoughts on young basketball prodigy Wemby’s potential, acknowledging that he could become a “great player” for the Spurs. However, Shaq has also warned that Wembanyama has a lot to learn before reaching his full potential.

Victor Wembanyama for the San Antonio Spurs (Via Sports Illustrated)
Victor Wembanyama for the San Antonio Spurs (Via Sports Illustrated)

He said the following after the San Antonio Spurs’ 115-114 win over the Phoenix Suns:

He's going to have to learn, he will be a great player. It's different from the French league, but when you come in as a rookie, you're just seeing things.
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Looking at the 2023-24 season statistics, Wembanyama has been nothing but spectacular. Averaging 19.8 points per game, he is ranked 46th in the league. Additionally, he has also secured an impressive 10.1 rebounds per game and 2.9 assists per game. It’s still a long road for the French prodigy, but there is no doubt his ceiling is incredibly high. It is seemingly just a matter of time.

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