San Antonio Spurs’ rising star Victor Wembanyama has become one of the latest players to weigh in on the NBA’s new All-Star Game format. Fresh off a dominant 114-94 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers—a game where he set the record for the most three-pointers by a young player—Wembanyama voiced his dissatisfaction with the current changes and his preference for the traditional East vs. West format.
“I’m personally wondering how to put competitiveness back into the All-Star game,” Wembanyama remarked postgame. He elaborated on his desire to see the game return to its competitive roots, emphasizing, “When I set foot on that court, though, I’m gonna be competitive for sure. But I don’t think nothing beats the old-school East-West format.”
Wembanyama’s comments shouldn’t come as a surprise, given his mindset as a fierce competitor. The 20-year-old Frenchman exudes a throwback mentality, bringing an all-business approach to every game. His focus on substance over spectacle reflects his broader perspective on the state of the league.
Wembanyama has been the centerpiece of a resurgent Spurs squad this season, guiding them to a solid 15-13 record. His remarkable individual performances underscore his value, with averages of 24.7 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.1 steals, and a league-leading 3.8 blocks per game during the 2024-25 campaign.
The impact of Victor Wembanyama on the NBA’s competitive culture
Wembanyama isn’t just rewriting the record books; he’s sparking conversations about the NBA’s future. His stance on the All-Star Game format transcends the event itself, raising questions about the balance between entertainment and competition.
A nod to “Old-School” values
Wembanyama represents a rare blend of innovation and respect for basketball’s roots. His preference for a more competitive All-Star Game harks back to a time when the event was seen as a showcase of pride and effort rather than an exhibition. This philosophy echoes the “old-school” approach of legends like Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan, who treated every opportunity on the court as a platform to excel.
Shaping the NBA’s future
As a key figure among the league’s next generation of stars, Wembanyama’s perspective carries significant weight. His call for a more competitive All-Star Game could inspire similar sentiments among his peers, potentially leading to a return to the classic East vs. West format with added incentives for players to take the game seriously.
At a time when the NBA grapples with balancing its identity as both a global entertainment brand and a bastion of elite competition, Wembanyama’s voice adds a compelling layer to the debate. His influence might usher in a new era where talent and intensity coexist, even in the league’s most celebratory events.