Victor Wembanyama says he intends to treat every NBA All-Star Game as a must-win event, insisting that stepping on the court without caring about the outcome “isn’t OK.” The 22-year-old Spurs center told reporters after Sunday’s exhibition that his competitive approach applies even to board games at home and that he plans to bring the same intensity to the league’s annual showcase.
Wembanyama’s attitude arrives at a pivotal moment for the NBA. With veterans such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant nearing the ends of their careers, the league is searching for a new face who can capture global interest. Already an international sensation, the 7-foot-4 rookie views himself as part of an evolving era of highly skilled big men. “I’m pushing the boundaries in some way,” he said.
Edwards laments brief appearances by Doncic, Jokic
After the game, Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards voiced frustration that Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic saw only 5:05 of action before sitting out the remainder of the contest. Both Team World starters have been managing recent injuries. “No shade toward Luka and Jokic, but they’re two of the best players in the league; they’re not trying to play in the All-Star Game,” Edwards remarked in a television interview.
Brown eyes combat sports post-NBA
Celtics swingman Jaylen Brown revealed Saturday that he has considered a second career in mixed martial arts or boxing once his basketball days conclude. “I’ve talked to some people… maybe in the post-career part of my life, I would love to partake in something like the UFC or even boxing,” Brown said, adding that he has already spoken with UFC president Dana White.
Tanking concerns dominate weekend chatter
According to The Athletic, discussions about how to curb widespread tanking were among the most common topics raised by players, coaches and executives throughout All-Star Weekend.
Source: Hoops Rumors
