The story, as Buford tells it, goes like this: Claudio Crippa, an international scout for the Spurs, proposed going to see a youth game before checking out Doumbouya. Buford saw Wembanyama play for the first time that day. And the seeds for the Spurs' new master plan were immediately planted.

Victor Wembanyama praised as "mature young man" for his ability to remain focused while juggling commitments for Spurs.

I just want to underline that this week was amazing,” Spurs star Victor Wembanyama said after Saturday's game versus the Pacers.