The future of the NBA might have been on display Tuesday night, as No. 1 pick contenders Victor Wembenyama and Scoot Henderson went head-to-head in an exhibition game and exceeded expectations.
Wembanyama, playing for French professional team Metropolitans 92, finished with 37 points, five blocks, and four rebounds. The 18-year-old shot seven-of-11 from three-point range, showcasing a keen shooting ability in addition to his otherworldly size and length.
Wembanyama says he stands at 7-foot-3, which would make him one of the tallest active players in the NBA once he’s drafted.
Henderson, on the other hand, might have been the frontrunner for the No. 1 overall pick in most other years. The 18-year-old didn’t disappoint, totaling 28 points, five assists, nine rebounds, and two steals while leading G-League Ignite to a 122-115 win. Henderson shot 11-of-21 from the field, leading his team in points and assists.
While Henderson flashed superstar potential, the opportunity to see Wembanyama play against high-level competition in America is something NBA fans should treasure. LeBron James, Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and Deandre Ayton were among those in attendance to see these two face off, according to ESPN’s Marc Spears.
As the hype surrounding Wembanyama continues to grow, the French big man might become the most anticipated NBA prospect since James entered the league in 2003.
