Following the Minnesota Timberwolves’ 114-105 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama, a rising NBA star, took a minute to praise Rudy Gobert’s remarkable defensive abilities. Gobert, a fearsome presence on the floor, demonstrated his abilities with 13 points and an astonishing 17 rebounds in the game, considerably contributing to the Timberwolves’ victory. Despite Wembanyama’s admirable efforts (17 points, 13 rebounds), Gobert’s defensive strategies provided issues for the young player throughout the game.
In a post-game interview, Wembanyama praised Gobert, describing him as a role model and mentor in his basketball career. He praised Gobert’s flawless assimilation into the Timberwolves’ lineup and identified him as a potential candidate for the title of best defensive player in the world. Wembanyama emphasised the importance of cooperation in Gobert’s accomplishment, stressing how Gobert, Anthony Edwards, and Karl-Anthony Towns worked together to help the Timberwolves maintain their lead in the difficult Western Conference.
‘I think he’s really found his place here [with the Timberwolves]. He fits in the team… he might be the best defensive player in the world. If you’re by yourself it doesn’t work. But here, he’s not by himself. He’s got everything to make this work.’
While Gobert struggled in his first season with the Timberwolves, he has emerged as a key contributor in his second season, providing critical assistance to Edwards and strengthening the team’s defensive capabilities. The harmonious chemistry between Gobert and his teammates has likely contributed to the Timberwolves’ continuing success in the highly competitive Western Conference.