It’s a Franco-French duel that’s as interesting on a media level as it is technically. When Rudy Gobert cross Victor Wembanyama, it's a life-size test for the two best Frenchies. Considered the best defender in the NBA this season, the Wolves pivot challenges the new NBA phenomenon, and the new best blocker in the league. For “Wemby”, it is precisely the opportunity to measure oneself against the best in intimidation.
Last night, both responded, and if Wembanyama showed off his technique out wide with a few “moves” worthy of a fullback, he was generally dominated with a 5 out of 13 on shots and 5 lost balls, while Gobert stuck two big dunks on his nose in one-on-one situations. For the former best defender in the NBA, the difference is physical.
“What's nice when I play against him is that I understand what it's like for others to play against me” smiles Gobert. “For now, the advantage I have over him is strength. That's what I tried to use, knowing he can counter me. But when I go there, I have to go hard because even if you think you have the upper hand with a feint, all you have to do is extend your arm to counter. »
Objective: gain consistency
Gobert takes the example of this action where Wembanyama countered him, before going on a counterattack, punctuated by a dribble behind the back and a new T-Mac attempt! He responded with a nice dunk, after a spin move, a head fake and some support work.
“He had me once, but I insisted and went for it. I was patient, I worked on my support and my power to be more balanced, but also more explosive” he continues about his progress on offense. “Tonight, everything combined well, and it can result in a spin move, followed by a feint to end up on the other side and get the foul. I still have to work on my consistency, but it's nice, and I think it's unstoppable and puts pressure on the defender. »
