Bill Simmons Compares Spurs' Wembanyama to NBA Legends

The media personality believes the young star is already in rarified air.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 4:41am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In the latest episode of his podcast, prominent media member Bill Simmons praised San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, comparing the 22-year-old to NBA legends like Tim Duncan, Larry Bird, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Simmons noted that only three players in their second NBA season have been named First Team All-NBA and won a championship, and Wembanyama is on a similar trajectory. The Spurs have emerged as a top contender in the league this season, thanks in large part to Wembanyama's individual excellence.

Why it matters

Wembanyama's rapid rise to stardom has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in NBA history, underscoring his immense talent and potential to lead the Spurs to championship contention early in his career. As the Spurs continue their ascent, the spotlight on Wembanyama will only grow brighter.

The details

In the latest episode of his podcast, Bill Simmons praised San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, noting that the 22-year-old is already in rarified air when compared to NBA legends. Simmons pointed out that only three players in their second NBA season have been named First Team All-NBA and won a championship: Tim Duncan in 1999, Larry Bird in 1981, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1971. Simmons believes Wembanyama is on a similar trajectory, saying, "I do think that's what we're watching."

  • The 2025-26 NBA season has been the San Antonio Spurs' coming out party.
  • Wembanyama is in his second NBA season.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

The 22-year-old star player for the San Antonio Spurs, who has emerged as one of the NBA's brightest young talents.

Bill Simmons

A prominent media personality and longtime student of the game, who hosts a popular NBA podcast.

Tim Duncan

A legendary NBA player who won five championships with the San Antonio Spurs.

Larry Bird

A Hall of Fame NBA player who won three championships with the Boston Celtics.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

One of the greatest NBA players of all time, who won six championships over his illustrious career.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Only three Year Two guys won the title that were first team All-NBA, which were '99 (Tim) Duncan, '81 (Larry) Bird, and '71 Kareem (Abdul-Jabbar). I'm only mentioning that because I think that's the territory he's in.”

— Bill Simmons, Podcast Host

“And it feels weird to have all these names from the first 80 years in the league and be like holy s**t, those are the best names we have but I do think that's what we're watching.”

— Bill Simmons, Podcast Host

What’s next

The Spurs will face a tough challenge in the Oklahoma City Thunder as they look to make a deep playoff run and potentially win a championship in Wembanyama's second season.

The takeaway

Victor Wembanyama's rapid rise to stardom has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in NBA history, underscoring his immense talent and potential to lead the Spurs to championship contention early in his career. As the Spurs continue their ascent, the spotlight on Wembanyama will only grow brighter, and he will have the opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats.