Wembanyama Ignites NBA Best-Player Debate After Spurs Go 28-2 Since Feb. 1
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 18
Wembanyama Ignites NBA Best-Player Debate After Spurs Go 28-2 Since Feb. 1
5 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 18
Victor Wembanyama’s late-season surge has shifted attention beyond Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s second straight MVP, with the 21-year-old now entering the West finals amid a real best-player debate.
Since Feb. 1, San Antonio went 28-2 when Wembanyama played and posted a league-best plus-23.4 net rating; in the playoffs, the Spurs are 7-1 when he logs at least 15 minutes.
Wembanyama’s jump was not just scoring: 10 of his 13 game scores above 30 came after Feb. 1, while his block rate also climbed and opponents described his rim protection as uniquely warping offenses.
NBA executives, Stan Van Gundy and Minnesota players all praised his two-way impact in extreme terms, with one exec calling him the best player he had ever seen and Jaden McDaniels labeling him the greatest defender he had faced.
The claim will get its clearest test against defending champion Oklahoma City, whose top-ranked defense and MVP leader Gilgeous-Alexander could either slow the hype or confirm a changing of the guard.
Is the NBA's best player the two-time MVP or the phenom rewriting the rules of defense?
Will the Thunder's reigning MVP withstand the rise of a generational talent in the Western Conference Finals?
Victor Wembanyama’s 2026 Breakout: Unanimous Defensive Player of the Year, MVP Finalist, and Spurs’ Playoff Rise
Overview
Victor Wembanyama’s third NBA season in 2026 marked a major breakthrough, as he reached long-anticipated milestones and secured top individual honors. His exceptional performance throughout the 2025-2026 season led to him being named the unanimous Defensive Player of the Year, highlighting his dominance on the court. Wembanyama also celebrated his first playoff win, a key step in his career. Teammate Keldon Johnson praised his work ethic and dedication, emphasizing how seriously Wembanyama approaches his craft. These achievements not only elevated his own status but also transformed the San Antonio Spurs into serious contenders.