The NBA’s next great individual rivalry has arrived, and it’s a battle of two unicorns: Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs and Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder. These young stars, both standing over 7 feet tall with guard skills, are redefining the center position and igniting a new era of excitement in the league.
Wembanyama and Holmgren: A Rivalry Years in the Making
While Wembanyama and Holmgren are just beginning their NBA journeys, their paths first crossed on the international stage. In 2021, they faced off in the gold medal game of the FIBA U19 World Cup, with Holmgren’s Team USA defeating Wembanyama’s France.
Fast forward to their rookie NBA seasons, and the rivalry reached new heights. Though drafted a year apart, with Holmgren missing his true rookie year due to injury, they quickly established themselves as the frontrunners for Rookie of the Year. Wembanyama ultimately claimed that prize, with Holmgren finishing a close second.
Head-to-Head Dominance
In their three meetings last season, Holmgren’s Thunder emerged victorious twice. But the individual numbers were staggering on both sides:
- Wembanyama averaged 20.0 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 3.7 blocks
- Holmgren posted 16.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks
Those incredible stat lines and the intensity of their battles instantly drew comparisons to legendary rivalries like Chamberlain vs. Russell and Garnett vs. Duncan. Every meeting is must-see TV.
Betting on Greatness: Wembanyama and Holmgren Futures
As Wembanyama and Holmgren write the next chapter of their rivalry, savvy bettors are already cashing in. Here are some key futures bets to consider on each rising star:
Chet Holmgren: The Defensive Dynamo
- Bet: Holmgren to win Defensive Player of the Year (+350)
- Why: Holmgren is a shot-blocking machine, leading the NBA with 4.0 swats per game. The Thunder are a top-5 defense, boosting his chances.
- Bet: Holmgren to win Most Improved Player (+1800)
- Why: After a strong rookie year, Holmgren has exploded in Year 2. He’s nearly averaging a 20-point double-double with over 3 blocks. If OKC surges, he’s a sneaky MIP pick.
Victor Wembanyama: An Unstoppable Force
- Bet: Wembanyama rebounds per game leader (+850)
- Why: Wembanyama’s insane length makes him a rebounding monster, and he has little frontcourt help in San Antonio. He could lead the league in boards.
- Bet: Wembanyama top points scorer on Christmas (+2200)
- Why: Wembanyama dropped 40 on the Knicks last Christmas. With Mitchell Robinson out, he could feast again at MSG this year. A fun holiday prop.
No matter how you bet, one thing is certain: Wembanyama vs. Holmgren will be appointment viewing for years to come. Sit back and enjoy the show as these two generational talents battle for supremacy and push the boundaries of what big men can do. The future of the NBA is in good hands.
