Former NBA guard Rashad McCants has criticized Dirk Nowitzki for his comments on Victor Wembanyama’s recent statement about Chet Holmgren. Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs center, was asked about matching up with Holmgren ahead of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, but deflected the question, stating that the team would focus on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander instead.
Nowitzki, a Dallas Mavericks legend, expressed disappointment with Wembanyama’s response, saying he wished the young player had given Holmgren more credit. Nowitzki described Wembanyama’s comment as “too swaggy, too dismissive.” In reaction, McCants took to social media to call out Nowitzki, labeling both him and Holmgren as “soft.”
The exchange began when Wembanyama was questioned about his upcoming matchup with Holmgren, a skilled big man from a consecutive draft class. Wembanyama’s response was seen as dismissive by Nowitzki, who felt that Holmgren deserved more respect. The criticism from Nowitzki sparked a strong reaction from McCants, who played in the NBA for four seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento Kings.
Wembanyama, meanwhile, has expressed his desire to spend his entire career with the San Antonio Spurs, a rare ambition in the modern NBA. In an interview with French publication L’Équipe, he stated that his dream is to remain with the Spurs, citing the examples of Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, and Tim Duncan, who all spent their entire careers with one team. Wembanyama is currently averaging 25.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 3.5 blocks per game in his third season, making him a key player for the Spurs.
The exchange between McCants and Nowitzki highlights the competitive nature of the NBA, where players and legends alike are not afraid to speak their minds. As Wembanyama continues to develop and grow as a player, his comments and actions will likely be closely watched by fans and pundits alike. With his impressive performance on the court and his stated desire to remain with the Spurs, Wembanyama is poised to become a dominant force in the league for years to come.
