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Not since LeBron James 20 years ago has a
prospect generated excitement on the level seen for the San
Antonio Spurs' first overall pick, who will start at home
against Texan rivals Dallas Mavericks after a remarkable
preseason.
"I never see a big guy like, you know, (who) can do such a thing
like he does," said Yao, an eight-times NBA All-Star who stands
two inches (five cms) taller than Wembanyama.
"In a scout report where we say 'This guy is -- how old he is,
you know, his height, his wingspan and his capabilities'... and
'He looks like, let's say, a former somebody', you know. For him
it's like, I don't know who shall I put up... no comparing."
Yao spent his entire NBA career with the Houston Rockets and
remains an iconic figure of Chinese sport after fuelling the
popularity of the NBA in his home country. He retired from the
NBA in 2011.
The Hall of Famer was reluctant to offer advice to Frenchman
Wembanyama, who enters the NBA at a time of unprecedented
international participation in the league.
"He has his own expedition to go (on)," said Yao, who was
travelling to New York as part of a some 30-person Chinese
delegation this week.
"And my experience probably from 20 years ago, I'm not sure is
still fit for today. So I just wish him all good luck."
(Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York, additional reporting by
Echo Wang in New York; Editing by Clare Fallon)
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