"Victor will not even say Chet Holmgren's name" - ESPN reporter Michael Wright on the genuine rivalry between Wemby and Chet Holmgren
The NBA's history is filled with colorful rivalries between prolific big men. In the 1990s, it was the intense competition between Hakeem Olajuwon and Patrick Ewing. In the early 2000s, it was Shaquille O'Neal versus Tim Duncan. And now, a new generation of big men is emerging with their own rivalry in the Association: Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren.
According to ESPN reporter Michael Wallace, who covers the San Antonio Spurs, Wemby is so focused on besting the OKC star that he won't even mention Holmgren's name.
Always be intertwined
When someone mentions Wemby, Chet's name is sure to follow. After all, the two play the same position, have similar skill sets, and had their rookie campaigns last season, with the Spurs stud besting the Thunder big man for Rookie of the Year honors. With their sophomore seasons underway, the Frenchman wants to keep his upward trajectory going and firmly establish himself as the better center.
"Chet is not exactly Candyman, but Victor will not even say the man's name. Wow. And that's pretty much been the theme ever since Victor Wembanyama arrived in San Antonio," Wallace told Malika Andrews on "NBA Today."
Wallace then referred to a recent exchange between the media and Wemby, in which the latter went out of his way to avoid mentioning Holmgren when asked about their imminent showdown.
"Let me give you an example: Monday night, we specifically asked Victor Wembanyama about the matchup with Chet Holmgren. This is what he said: 'I'm excited to get back to winning ways. It's always a good challenge to play Oklahoma City,' and he said he watched every one of Oklahoma City's games," Wallace reported.
"Now, what you didn't hear was him say, Chet Holmgren. He does not mention the guy's name, and I think it's because, you know, there is a real budding rivalry here," the ESPN reporter added.
Healthy competition
All these are in the name of healthy competition. An intense competitor set on becoming an all-time great, the 7'4" big man is trying to approach his matchup with the former Gonzaga star as something personal, even though they are just in their early years in the league.
"I'm telling you, they do not like each other. They respect each other, but you'll see it manifest itself on the court," Wallace remarked.
On Wednesday, Holmgren and the OKC Thunder defeated Wemby and his Spurs 105-93. Chet emerged as the better player with 15 points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks. On the other hand, Victor finished with a career-low six points, eight rebounds, two assists, and three blocks.
