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The sale of a game-worn Victor Wembanyama jersey from his first-ever NBA game fetched an astounding $762,000 at a Sotheby's auction.
The rookie, heralded as the most-anticipated prospect since LeBron James, made his NBA debut against the Dallas Mavericks in a season opener that, despite ending in a San Antonio Spurs defeat, etched its place in history.
The auction, initially projecting a more modest figure between $80,000 and $120,000, left onlookers astonished as bidding closed at a figure nearly seven times the upper estimate.
Sotheby's, having recently become the official source for NBA game-worn gear, orchestrated the historic sale, making this jersey the most expensive debut jersey ever auctioned and one of the highest-priced in the modern era.
Excitement still high for Wembanyama rookie season
For comparison, the debut jersey worn by Zion Williamson, a prominent figure in recent NBA history, was sold for a comparatively modest $80,400 in 2020.
The substantial increase in the value of Wembanyama's jersey speaks volumes about the unparalleled excitement surrounding the young Frenchman's entry into the league.
Victor Wembanyama's rookie campaign, though marked by the Spurs' struggles, has showcased glimpses of his immense potential.
Averaging 18.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, Wembanyama is undeniably a force to be reckoned with.
However, his shooting percentages, at 42.4% from the field and 26.9% from deep, leave room for improvement.
As the Spurs find themselves at the bottom of the Western Conference with a 3-11 record, the buyer of Wemby's debut jersey undoubtedly hopes for the rookie to fulfill the lofty expectations.
French coach Collet: We have to be patient
French national team head coach Vincent Collet recently offered insights into Wembanyama's performance during his rookie season to French outlet L'Equipe.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the team, Collet emphasized the statistical consistency of Wembanyama's contributions, averaging nearly 20 points and close to 10 rebounds per game.
"He's averaging nearly 20 points and close to 10 rebounds. From a statistical point of view, it's still consistent for a first year,"Collet said.
However, the coach also pointed out the need for progress in playmaking, highlighting a game where Wembanyama took 26 shots but made zero assists, a facet Collet deemed "embarrassing."
"And then the connection with teammates. Against Sacramento, he took 26 shots and made 0 assists. For me, it's embarrassing," the French coach concluded.