During a recent appearance on M6 TV in France, Wembanyama shared what he told Durant after the loss.
“This is my personal childhood favorite player… I made it clear to him that I wanted to learn from him and perhaps steal one or two of his secret techniques,” Wembanyama said.
It’s clear how much respect Wembanyama, who was named NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2023-24 campaign, has for Durant
And it appears to be mutual. Durant, after a Phoenix Suns loss to the San Antonio Spurs in November of ’23, was very complimentary of Wembanyama’s game.
“He’s a unique player who is going to be a force in this league for a long time,” Durant said. “Once he continues to get experience under his belt, he’s just going to get even better.”
Wembanyama was already a force during his rookie season, as he averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game in 71 contests. But if Wembanyama can add a few components to his game from Durant, who is one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, then opponents will have even fewer answers for the 7’4″ French big man.