‘I’m So Tired of It,’ ‘You Don’t Have To Force It’ — NBA Champion Calls Out Media for Trying To Crown Victor Wembanyama Too Soon

Victor Wembanyama has already become one of the NBA’s biggest stars, but the conversation around his future has grown far beyond his performances.

Some analysts are placing the San Antonio Spurs center in discussions about basketball’s greatest players. However, former NBA champion Nick Young is pushing back against what he sees as premature praise.

Last season, Wembanyama averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game and also became the youngest Defensive Player of the Year in NBA history and the first unanimous winner, while earning a spot on the All-NBA First Team.

Those achievements have only added to the excitement surrounding the Frenchman’s future.

Several basketball legends have also praised his extraordinary talent. Celtics legend Paul Pierce called Wembanyama the “most complete player” he had ever seen, while Shaquille O’Neal described him as the “first perfect big man that’s ever been created.”

It is easy to understand why Wembanyama has attracted such praise. Standing 7-foot-4, he combines shot-blocking and rim protection with ball-handling, outside shooting, and the ability to create his own offense. His skill set is rare for a player of his size, making him one of the league’s most exciting young talents.

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However, that does not mean his career has already surpassed those of Michael Jordan or LeBron James. Speaking on Gil’s Arena this week, Young expressed frustration with how quickly the media has elevated Wembanyama.

“Oh God, I’m so tired of it. Just give him the MVP already. All these awards… MVP is about to be the GOAT already,” Young said.

The 2018 NBA champion argued that the league should allow the 22-year-old to develop his career.

“You don’t have to force it to happen,” Young said. “He’s obviously like the unicorn, something we’ve never seen, but instead of like forcing it on, like forcing the issue, let it happen.”

When compared with players already in the GOAT conversation, Wembanyama still has a long way to go. Jordan won six NBA championships and five MVP awards, while LeBron has four championships and four MVP awards across a career spanning more than two decades.

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Wembanyama has time to build his own résumé, but staying healthy, maintaining his production, and competing for championships will be important if he hopes to join that conversation.

For now, the Spurs’ star is preparing for his fourth regular season in the league. San Antonio will open their campaign against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, giving Wembanyama another opportunity to show how far he can take his game.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.