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Victor Wembanyama did not respond to Chet Holmgren's aggressive play with any retaliation, appearing taken aback by how the game unfolded.
For the first time in recent memory, the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the San Antonio Spurs, securing a 116-104 victory on Opening Night.
Holmgren was determined to disrupt Wembanyama from the opening tip, sticking to him tightly on every possession and refusing to switch on screens. The runner-up for last year's Defensive Player of the Year award effectively neutralized the unanimous Rookie of the Year, limiting him to 12 points on a dismal 1-of-13 shooting performance.
This outcome surprised much of the NBA community. After the Spurs and Thunder engaged in a memorable seven-game series last season, many assumed San Antonio had Oklahoma City's number. However, this Opening Night win signaled the Thunder's intent to rewrite that narrative in their favor.
Following the game, Wembanyama analyzed his mistakes against the team he eliminated last year. The MVP candidate emphasized the need to revert to his dominant style, noting that relying on pull-up jumpers is not effective for a 7-foot-4 player.
"I feel like it's obvious for me. I need to go back to playing the basketball I like. This is not the sport I like right here," Wembanyama said. "I got no reason to be hesitant, no reason to not be myself. For me, it's as simple as that. I'm good when I have fun."
Hearing Wembanyama express that sentiment is notable. It marks the first time in a while that the Thunder have bullied him out of his comfort zone. Typically, the Spurs have successfully utilized pick-and-roll lobs to their star player, but that option was completely taken away.
This development is worth monitoring in future matchups. Did the Thunder crack the code by assigning Holmgren to Wembanyama? Or will the Spurs make the necessary adjustments? Another 1-of-13 shooting night from Wembanyama is unlikely, but Oklahoma City's physical defense may continue to force him into uncomfortable situations. It worked for one random October night, at least.
This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Victor Wembanyama hopes to rediscover 'fun' after Thunder shut him down Opening Night.
Originally reported by yahoo.