When you're a highly touted rookie—or any superstar youngster—in the NBA, veterans are going to try and get their licks in on you by any means necessary. Think of the classic clip of then-rookie Cavaliers forward LeBron James's teammates downplaying the hype surrounding him, or the treatment meted out to Magic center Shaquille O'Neal during the 1994 All-Star Game.
Sometimes, however, the old man simply beats the young man. Sometimes it happens more than once, as Spurs big man Victor Wembanyama has learned over the past two games.
On Wednesday, Wembanyama found himself defending Clippers guard James Harden. The 10-time All-Star put his full package of moves on the suddenly-helpless Frenchman, punctuating the possession by swishing a midrange jumper.
HARDEN CAUGHT WEMBY (again) 😳
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) November 23, 2023
(via @LAClippers)
pic.twitter.com/BcVPSja5rl
Harden's mastery of Wembanyama would be less notable had he not done it in the game immediately preceding this one. On Monday, Harden danced past Wembanyama to sink a floater in the first quarter of Los Angeles's 124-99 win over San Antonio.
Fans poked fun at how the NBA framed the highlight, declining to mention Wembanyama's presence.
Wemby getting superstar treatment already by not being mentioned lol https://t.co/FDkujaypKt
— ace (@DaddycoonSOD) November 23, 2023
Some celebrated the triumph of the league's old guard.
Told y’all they not gone let that rookie come in and embarrass them Carry the hell on J harden https://t.co/GPQVlfDkYS
— NotDatFunnyComedian (@Hustlersmotiva7) November 23, 2023
Many chalked up the events as teachable moments for Wembanyama.
Welcome to the league young fella. Second game in a row. https://t.co/GCaCxzXgUh
— BIG SLICK (@FlossOnEm) November 23, 2023
Others joked that Harden may have Wembanyama to thank in the event of a career renaissance.
Wemby redonne une carrière à Harden.. https://t.co/llHXbmdDWI
— Sir Busby (@ThePrinceJames7) November 23, 2023
