Paolo Banchero shares thoughts on Wenbanyama, In-Season Tournament / News - Basketnews.com

Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero admitted he was taken aback by the height of Victor Wembanyama, adding that he doesn't see much of a difference between the In-Season Tournament and regular-season games.

Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports - Scanpix Credit Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports - Scanpix

Orlando Magic star and last year's Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero had the opportunity to compare Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren.

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Wembanyama and Holmgren are considered favorites to claim this season's Rookie of the Year award. Banchero admitted he's happy for both guys.

"We haven't played either of them yet, but they've both had some good starts," Banchero told Steve Aschburner from NBA.com. "The Thunder are playing really well right now, and, being in my draft class, I've known Chet for a while. It's good to see him out there and having success."

The Magic forward also believes being around the team last year helped Holmgren.

"100 percent. I think that's why he started so well. He had a whole year to learn and see from afar and take it all in. Practices, games, travel."

"And kind of calibrate it, see how he would adjust to this first year playing. He has fit in seamlessly with that team. He was a top pick for a reason, so you knew he was going to be good; now he's proving it," Banchero said.

When asked about the San Antonio Spurs' No. 1 pick, Wembanyama, Banchero immediately named one thing.

"I saw him in Vegas, and I was taken aback at first at how tall he really is," Banchero said. "It's a sight to see. Just some of the stuff I've been seeing, him doing at that size is unique. I think he, Chet, and Bol Bol Bol are the only over-7-foot guys I've seen move that way. He's even taller than those two guys."

Finally, the 21-year-old shared his thoughts about the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament.

"It's a little different. I think there's an intensity there for both teams. The courts are different, feel a little different as well. I wouldn't say it was too much to make a difference [in play], but I noticed it for sure," Banchero concluded.

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