Shaquille O’Neal Offers Key Advice to Rising Star Victor Wembanyama

Former NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal has shared valuable advice with Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ promising rookie, as the young player impressively leads his team into the 2025-26 season. Wembanyama, standing at an extraordinary 7’4”, has already made history by becoming the first player in the league to score 150 points and achieve 20 blocks in the opening five games of a season.

The Spurs have started the season with a perfect 5-0 record, marking a milestone in the franchise’s history. Under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich, Wembanyama’s performance has drawn comparisons to some of the best in the game, showcasing skills that go beyond traditional expectations for a big man. O’Neal, who once dominated the court himself, recognizes the exceptional talent Wembanyama brings to the game.

O’Neal’s Insights on Managing Success

During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, O’Neal praised Wembanyama’s playing style, noting, “They’re playing great… Joker has already redefined what a big man can do, but Wemby’s taking it to a different level.” He highlighted Wembanyama’s ability to dribble with finesse and shoot from distance, comparing his style to that of Kevin Durant. The former four-time NBA champion expressed excitement for both Wembanyama and the Spurs organization, emphasizing the potential for continued success.

Despite the thrilling start, O’Neal cautioned that the season is long, with 77 games remaining. Wembanyama, who has faced health challenges, including a bout with deep vein thrombosis last season, needs to pace himself. O’Neal drew from his own experience, recalling how former Lakers coach Phil Jackson managed his workload. “Phil Jackson… would come in at times and be like, ‘Hey, sit these two games out. I need you to rest. No parties, no rap videos, no commercials, just rest. But when you come back, I need you to average 40,’” O’Neal explained.

Balancing Performance and Health

O’Neal underscored the importance of load management in extending a player’s career. He advised Wembanyama to prioritize his health over immediate performance, suggesting that taking a week off in case of injury could be beneficial in the long run. “There’s no point in trying to go all out and play through an injury, only to feel wasted by the time the postseason games arrive,” he noted.

As Wembanyama continues to make waves in the league, the question remains whether he will heed O’Neal’s advice. With his current momentum, the young star is determined to prove himself, but sustainability will be key as the season progresses. The basketball world will be watching closely to see how Wembanyama balances his ambitious play with essential self-care.

As the Spurs look to maintain their strong start, O’Neal’s insights remind both players and fans of the delicate balance between talent, performance, and health in professional sports.