Even though LeBron James and Victor Wembanyama have never played against each other, the comparisons between them are intensifying as the NBA season begins. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick made his regular season debut with the San Antonio Spurs and attracted widespread attention. However, this feat was not eclipsed until LeBron James’ debut in 2003.
Judging from the data, Venbanyama’s NBA debut had an average audience of about 2.99 million viewers, with a peak audience of 4.3 million, making it the highest-rated regular season game since the Dallas Mavericks faced the San Antonio Spurs in 2011.
LeBron James burst onto the scene in the NBA back in 2003, attracting 3.03 million viewers in his first game against the Sacramento Kings.
•
That enthusiasm has spread to Vembanyama’s native France, where NBA League Pass viewership is up an impressive 220% from last season’s average.
What’s more, Wembunyama’s online presence has soared, reaching a staggering 214 million views, the most among NBA players since the start of the preseason.
Comparing LeBron James and Victor Wunbanyama’s NBA debut performances
Victor Wembanyama’s highly anticipated NBA debut has drawn comparisons to LeBron James from almost every angle. But of the two, the four-time NBA champion surpasses the French rookie in game statistics.
In 2003, LeBron scored 25 points, 9 assists, 6 rebounds and 4 steals in his debut, despite losing to a team that had Peja Stojakovic, Mike Bibby and Vlad. Divac’s Sacramento Kings.
Victor Wembanyama got off to a slow start in his first game against the Dallas Mavericks as he got into foul trouble early. The Spurs lost to the Mavericks, and the rookie scored 15 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block and 3 three-pointers that night.Luka Doncic stole the show with a triple-double of 33 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists
With plenty of comparisons between these two basketball prodigies, fans can expect more to come as the season goes on.
The Spurs and Lakers will meet three times this season in a highly anticipated matchup. The first clash will take place on December 13, followed by another two days later. The Spurs will host the Lakers on February 23 for their final game.