After Victor Wemby made the switch to Center, his stats have been impressive with an average of 19.8 points per game, 16.5 rebounds per game, 3.5 assists per game, and 4.3 blocks per game. This shift has also led to the San Antonio Spurs securing a top 5 defensive rating. Additionally, their losing streak has been brought to an end.
Victor Wembanyama’s rookie year with the Spurs has been good so far, but his performance hasn’t been as transcendent as many had hoped. However, a recent starting lineup change could unlock even more of his potential. The Spurs had been playing Zach Collins at center for the first 20 games of the season, but with the team struggling, Malaki Branham replaced Collins and left Wembanyama to take over full-time center duties. Since then, he’s been averaging incredible numbers and has been great in his new role. Wembanyama poses a tough matchup for opposing centers who can’t keep up with him. His ball skills are also difficult for centers to guard. The Spurs’ defense is actually good when Wembanyama plays at center. He’s already an incredible rim protector and has been by far the Spurs’ most valuable player, particularly on the defensive end. The Spurs are ready to create better conditions for Wembanyama to thrive, and moving him to center is the first step in that process.
