Wembanyama says guards game is over, reacts to 70-point night by Embiid / News - Basketnews.com

Victor Wembanyama sees big men taking center stage in the NBA: "A few years back, it was more of a guards' game. But now, it's come back to a big men's game."

Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con - Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con - Scanpix

Monday night at the Wells Fargo Center witnessed the first matchup between Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid and San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama.

Player of the Game EFF 73 Joel Embiid Points 70 Accuracy 24-41 Rebounds 18 Assists 5

In a game where Wembanyama impressed with a 33-point performance, it was Embiid who stole the spotlight, delivering a historic performance in the Sixers' 133-123 victory.

The reigning NBA MVP recorded a franchise-record 70 points on 24-for-41 shooting, accompanied by 18 rebounds and five assists.

"I mean, it would have been more fun in a win, of course, but it's inspiring," Wembanyama said on Embiid's extraordinary feat. "Inspiring, especially offensively."

The 20-year-old Frenchman went on to highlight the shift in the game dynamics, noting that the focus is returning to frontline players.

"A few years back, it was more of a guards' game," Wembanyama noted. "But now, it's come back to a big men's game. I think it makes sense in terms of the game. We got guys, some guys all around the league who do a lot of stuff despite being very tall.

"It's the way the game changes. Now, we got to adapt."

Sharing the sentiment, Embiid showered praise on his younger colleague, acknowledging Wembanyama's comprehensive skill set.

"He's great," Embiid said. "I mean, he's got everything. Size, skill, got everything. There's nothing else to say. Bright future. He's already pretty good, but once he develops and his body also catches up, he's gonna bring a lot of problems for a lot of guys in this league. He's extremely talented."

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