Chet Holmgren vs. Victor Wembanyama
The NBA is known for there competitive players and for the known rivalries throughout. The rivalries within the league started off as team rivalries dating back to the oldest rivalry the Celtics and the Lakers. Today the focus has shifted to more individual player rivarly. A big rivalry in today’s league is Chet Homgren and Victor Wembanyama, both big time rookies with rising success. Chet Holmgren a Power Forward on the Oklahoma Thunder, and Victor Wembanyama a Center for the San Antonio Spurs. Many question whether or not this a legitimate rivalry or if it is all fabricated and an entertainment factor for the league.
(NBA Entertainment)
The Oklahoma Thunder went head to head with the San Antonio Spurs and we saw these two individuals take over the game, encapsulating their rookie season. Holmgren showed a piece of his skill set throughout this game, playing a total of 30 minutes. Grinding out 17 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. On the other hand we saw rookie Wembanyama snuck in 24 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, four blocks, and one steal, all within his 28 minute debut. Both getting physical with one another, and giving some mad stare downs when dominating at the net. Ultimately the Thunder walked away with a big win 140-114.
Many questions surrounded the Oklahoma Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, questioning players how they felt about the matchup of the two rookies. Players responding sarcastically “it’s a team sport, not about individual players” or responding with “its the Thunder vs. the Spurs” almost brushing off the rivalry factor that was present throughout the game. Then we get to the two rookies getting interviewed, Wembanyama responding with “I’m not concerned about who I’m playing, I’m concerned about the team we’re playing.” So from this interview response it leaves fans questioning is it legit? Or are they just two players trying to make a name for themselves. Holmgren was also questioned about his matchup versus Wembanyama his response was very unclear and seemed like the “rivarly” was made for a staple for the league. "It's obviously like human nature. But to really be uncommon and not just do whatever else does, you have to kind of fight that. Obviously, that's the headline that you guys have. That's what ESPN is promoting, that's what NBA is promoting, and rightfully so," from this response you see he also was stating it’s human nature to feel some sort of rivalry, but rebuttals it with it’s the league is promoting it.
Sarah Phipps/AP
Ultimately this “rivarly” comes down to, two young player’s trying to establish themselves in the league. Both are hungry for what’s happening and what’s to come. Which the fire of that itself fuels players to go hard and make tight plays. Hard feelings are always going to be a part of the game but at the end of the day. Ultimately it’s a team sport and it’s whatever team has the ability to step up and win at any given moment.