Stephen A. Smith Comments On The Hype Surrounding Victor Wembanyama

There was a time when people actually debated whether Carmelo Anthony should be the No. 1 pick instead of LeBron James ahead of the 2003 NBA Draft.

Time made sure to settle that debate almost right away, but that’s not the case with Victor Wembanyama.

The French specimen has been the undisputed best player in his class for years now, and some consider him to be the greatest prospect in the history of the game, even ahead of the likes of LeBron.

However, Stephen A. Smith isn’t buying all that hype.

.@stephenasmith said the excitement surrounding Victor Wembanyama isn't even CLOSE to the excitement he had to see LeBron play as a rookie 👀 pic.twitter.com/KoGwPq4Xgu

— First Take (@FirstTake) June 21, 2023

Of course, he believes that Wembanyama could go on to become a legendary basketball player, lauding his physique and unmatched skill set.

Nonetheless, he also talked about the obvious injury concerns that come with a player of his size.

Moreover, Smith cited that the excitement around Wembanyama is nothing compared to what people went through with LeBron, arguing that he was way more hyped to watch that young Magic Johnson 2.0. than he is about Wembanyama.

Truth be told, James’ high school games were sold out and nationally televised, so he might have a valid point.

Then again, one can’t but help to feel that there’s a bit of bias when talking about Wembanyama.

For whatever reason, it’s like people cannot stand the fact that a non-American player could end up being the greatest of all time, and it feels like the narrative around him would be quite different if he had played in the NCAA.

Also, being a better prospect than LeBron — which he is — doesn’t mean he’ll be a better player or have a better career.