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Victor Wembanyama had a difficult start to his Summer League career with the San Antonio Spurs.
CNN –
Since LeBron James joined the NBA, there hasn’t been as much hype surrounding a new signing and fans finally got a chance to see French sensation Victor Wembanyama in the San Antonio Spurs jersey for the first time.
It’s fair to say, however, that “Wemby’s” Spurs debut didn’t live up to expectations as the 19-year-old ended the Spurs’ 76-68 win over the Charlotte Hornets with just nine points on a 15 shot average, 4%
But there were still glimpses of the incredible talent that has already made Wembanyama a household name, particularly with his vision and passing game, while there was an incredible block on a three-point try from Brandon Miller – the Hornets’ No. 2 in the league Overall standings in the draft – that showed his remarkable defensive potential.
Wembanyama admitted it was a difficult first night for him but called his debut a “special moment”.
“It was really special to wear this jersey for the first time,” said Wembanyama. “It’s really an honor. Overall, I’m glad we won this game.
“Honestly I didn’t really know what to do on the pitch tonight, there’s no better start but I’m trying to study for the next few games. The important [thing] is to be ready for the season.”
The Hornets were led by Miller, who recorded 16 points and 11 rebounds and once attempted to catch Wembanyama in the neck while crossing the Frenchman and getting to the basket.
Elsewhere, No. 3 draft pick Scoot Henderson made his debut with the Portland Trail Blazers in a thrilling game against the Houston Rockets.
Jabari Smith Jr. scored a wild buzzer-beater for the Rockets with 0.2 seconds remaining after being found by Tari Eason’s incredible scoop inbound pass. Smith Jr. barely had time to catch the ball before making a hopeful attempt at the basket, but it only hit the net and gave the Rockets a 100-99 win.
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Scoot Henderson impressed on his debut with the Portland Trail Blazers but was sidelined with injury.
Henderson finished the game with an impressive 15 points, five rebounds, six assists and a steal, but had to pull out of the game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury.
According to ESPN, Blazers Summer League coach Jonah Herscu said physical therapists were “just being cautious” given the injury.
Next up for these teams, injury permitting, is an exciting clash between Henderson and Wembanyama when the Trail Blazers take on the Spurs on Sunday.