“Played against one another prior to the NBA.” The truth of Chet Holmgren’s “beef” with Victor Wembanyama is revealed.
Oklahoma City Thunder Chet Holmgren and San Antonio Spurs young guard Victor Wembanyama are often mentioned in the same bracket and are seen as rivals. However, some people believe they have a personal hatred for each other, which Holmgren recently denied.
During an appearance on Paul George‘s podcast, Chet Holmgren clarified that his rivalry with Wembanyama is purely competitive and doesn’t extend off the court. They shared a rookie season despite being in different draft classes, with Victor Wembanyama winning Rookie of the Year and both making the All-Rookie First Team.
I would just say, us being competitors. We played against each other before we were even in the NBA. People would be like, ‘Y’all got beef?’ I’m like ‘Beef?’ We’re out there competing, but beef, like beef means like when I see you, like we’re fighting. You know what I mean? Chet Holmgren said on Paul George’s Podcast P
Holmgren and Wembanyama have similar skillsets, where they use their length to block shots and handle the ball effectively. They have faced off three times last season, with the Thunder winning two matchups, while Wemby averaged 20 points and 13 rebounds against them.
Chet Holmgren emphasized that there is no animosity between them, and they will likely have more exciting matchups as they aim to lead their teams to success in the Western Conference. Wembanyama will try to bring the Spurs, who added veteran Chris Paul, to a postseason spot, while Holmgren will help the Thunder defend their status as the reigning number one seed.
NBA revives rivalry hype with Chet Holmgren vs. Victor Wembanyama showdown
The NBA is reviving its focus on rivalries, reminiscent of the iconic Magic vs. Bird era. To achieve this, the league has strategically placed the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder in the same group bracket for the In-Season Tournament, ensuring an early-season clash between the two rising stars.
Their matchups last season drew national attention, where both players showcased subtle differences in their attitudes and emotions when facing each other, compared to other games. The NBA is capitalizing on this budding rivalry, marketing their encounters as elevated events.
However, with both teams making offseason improvements, their upcoming games are highly anticipated. The league hopes to recreate the excitement of past rivalries, and the Holmgren-Wembanyama showdown is poised to be a flagship attraction in the 2024-25 season.
