FIRST Take analyst Stephen A. Smith has revealed what concerns him most about NBA prodigy Victor Wembanyama.
The No. 1 overall pick, 19, made his NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night.
Wembanyama played 23 minutes against the Dallas Mavericks as the Spurs lost 126-119.
He scored 15 points, went 3-5 from three-point land, and collected 5 rebounds.
Standing 7ft 4in, the French star has attempted to beef up over the offseason with a revamped diet and workout plan.
Stephen A. was courtside on Wednesday night to watch Wembanyama’s debut.
The veteran analyst, 56, revealed on Thursday’s First Take he still has worries about the physicality of players in the NBA – and feared the skinny Wembenyama could be “chopped down.”
Stephen A. said: “The brother is very very skilled. To be 7ft 4in and be able to handle the ball like that [is impressive].
“For me, to watch him last night, to keep pulling up for three-pointers and how he was able to get into positions to take those shots, I give him a lot of credit.
“Obviously, this brother is going to be an elite defender.
“All I’m concerned about is his physique and the punishment he is going to endure.”
Smith continued his analysis focusing on Wemby’s debut but admitted he was worried about the Frenchman being “too thin.”
He added: “He’s that tall, he’s that long. If I’m going up against him and I see those skills…I’m going to chop him down.
“That’s what you have to pay attention to. He’s too thin. I just hope he can stay healthy.”
Fans were quick to comment on Stephen A.’s divisive take.
One wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “I agree for once.”
Another said: “Facts!! I agree Stephen Smith.”
While a third added: “I mean, anyone with eyes should’ve had these concerns the moment he was drafted. That’s why the hype of him being the greatest draft pick ever seems a bit premature, IMO.”
But a fourth countered: “This ain’t the NBA of 20-30 years ago.”
And a fifth predicted: “Giannis [Antetokounmpo] was just as slim, and look at him now! I trust Coach Pop!”
You can catch First Take on ESPN every weekday from 10am ET.
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