Spurs' Victor Wembanyama: 'I Think I'm Ready' for NBA's Challenges Ahead of Debut

The most-hyped regular-season NBA debut in 20 years is nearly upon us, as Victor Wembanyama will play his first official game with the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night.

Speaking to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Wembanyama didn't seem nervous about being able to meet the moment in the NBA.

"I think I'm ready," he said. "I know I haven't seen the best level of the NBA so far and the best teams and the best players, but it's very exciting."

While it can be foolish to read too much into preseason results, it's hard not to look at what Wembanyama was doing and think it won't take him long to make a major impact in the NBA.

The image of Wembanyama blocking a shot by Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins is one of the most awe-inspiring things you will ever see on a basketball court.

This doesn't even factor in what Wembanyama has looked like on the offensive end of the court. He averaged 19.3 points on 50.9 percent shooting from the field, 4.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocks in 20.9 minutes per game in four preseason contests.

There is going to be a spotlight on Wembanyama that no rookie has had since LeBron James in 2003. James has more than lived up to his potential heading into his 21st season in the NBA.

We won't know for many years if Wembanyama fulfills the promise that he's already shown in France and as the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NBA draft, but the early returns are extremely promising for the 19-year-old.

Wembanyama and the Spurs will host the Dallas Mavericks in the regular-season opener for both teams on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. ET.