ESPN released its NBA player rankings for the 2025–2026 season, placing Victor Wembanyama (Wemby) at the number 5 spot. This caused much controversy, as many people argued that Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves should be ranked higher (Edwards is ranked #6). Wemby has only played a total of 117 games, and being ranked so high is quite an accomplishment. But does he actually deserve it? First off, who is Victor Wembanyama?
Wemby is a 7’5″ (rumored 7’7″) NBA player for the San Antonio Spurs. Hailing from France, he was drafted 1st overall in the 2023 NBA Draft and is considered the greatest basketball prospect since LeBron James. He is a unique player, boasting an 8-foot wingspan and a massive frame. Despite his size, he has developed shooting and dribbling skills that no other 7-footer has ever had.
Did you know that Victor Wembanyama knocked down more threes in his rookie and sophomore seasons than Stephen Curry did (270–243), despite playing less time? That’s just one small stat for Wemby. Being this good of a shooter at 7’5″ is ridiculous—and it’s only one part of his game. Unlike some #1 picks who turned out to be busts, Wemby took the league by storm in his rookie season.
Here were his rookie stats:
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21.4 points
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46.5% field goal
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32.5% three-point
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10.6 rebounds
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3.9 assists
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1.2 steals
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3.6 blocks
(All per game)
These numbers are exceptional for any rookie season and are widely considered among the greatest in NBA history. Wemby made history by recording 1,500+ points, 250+ blocks, and 100+ three-pointers in a single season, becoming the first player ever to do so. Along with these incredible stats, he also earned an All-NBA Defensive First Team spot—an honor no rookie had ever received before.
Defense is a huge part of the French phenom’s skill set, but it’s not everything. His offense is just as impressive. Looking at his rookie stats, you can see that he made nearly half his shots and posted a very respectable 32.5% from downtown. His all-around efficiency at such a young age has given the Spurs great hope for the future.
With these skills, he even led France to the Olympic Finals, where they nearly outlasted the “dominant” Team USA, falling short due to Stephen Curry’s clutch fourth quarter. With his talent and work ethic, insiders predict “The Alien” could become the league’s greatest player within the next five years—especially since he’s still developing, which is the scary part.
Height vs. Skill
Wembanyama’s incredible height certainly gives him an advantage. Height provides easier scoring opportunities, better court vision, and enhanced playmaking. But controlling a frame that size is impressive in itself. Historically, very tall NBA players have often been injury-prone or had shortened careers—Yao Ming (7’6″) being a prime example.
Wembanyama, however, has proven to be durable and continues to work hard to stay healthy. He’s coordinated and balanced enough to play all positions, whether he’s bringing the ball up the court or battling in the paint.
Do you really think all of this comes just from height? Many greats never achieved what Wemby has already done—players like Shaquille O’Neal (7’1″), Yao Ming (7’6″), Manute Bol (7’7″), Bol Bol (7’3″), Boban Marjanović (7’4″), and Tacko Fall (7’6″), just to name a few. This further cements Wemby’s dominance and proves that his success comes from skill, not just size.
Another aspect that sets Wemby apart is his passing ability. He can create plays for himself and his teammates, whether from the perimeter or the post. As a 7’5″, 21-year-old, he’s already shown that he can do far more than rely on height—and there’s still much more to come.
Work Ethic
Wemby’s sophomore season was cut short due to a blood clot in his right shoulder, but his response was nothing short of inspiring. After months of rehab, he trained harder than ever to return to form. He worked with NBA legends Kevin Garnett and Hakeem Olajuwon, added 30 pounds of muscle, and developed his game further.
“I can assure you nobody has trained like I did this summer,” he said.
If he continues to push himself beyond his limits, there’s no doubt he will become one of the greatest players ever.
In Conclusion
I believe Victor Wembanyama deserves his #5 ranking entering the 2025–2026 NBA season. He’s already proven his purpose and potential early in his career and looks poised to take over the league. Having accomplished so much at such a young age—and at such a height—he is redefining what’s possible in basketball.
He’s already made an impact on NBA history and hasn’t even reached his full potential yet. The league isn’t ready for what’s coming.
The “Wemby Era” is upon us—and it’s going to be insane.
Do you think ESPN ranked him correctly?
