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The Athletic: Victor Wembanyama and the ‘ethical’ Spurs have earned the right to raise the bar

In praising the Spurs' 'ethical basketball,' Wembanyama made a statement that said more about his team's progress than any opponent.

Editor’s Note: Read more NBA coverage from The Athletic here. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA or its teams. 

LAS VEGAS — How do you define ethics? A subjective measurement of what’s right and what’s wrong, it’s entered the NBA lexicon over the last year as opponents and fans have lobbed complaints of foul baiting and overtly scrappy defense at the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

Winning a title requires grit, determination and a willingness to push core principles to their limits. Whatever you may think of the Thunder’s approach to winning, it’s working to historic proportions.

Chet Holmgren Sounds Off On Victor Wembanyama 'Rivalry' Label; Says They Never Speak To Each Other

Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama are two young bigs with the potential to become future Hall of Famers in the NBA. But it seems the league was very quick to label them as rivals.

In the initial phase of their careers, they embraced it as a challenge. But a recent fact has come to light that would make anyone question whether or not this truly is a rivalry.

Chet Holmgren was recently interviewed by ESPN’s Malika Andrews, where he addressed his rivalry with Victor Wembanyama.

“I don’t think it’s ever been up to players or teams to declare rivalries. So, you’re asking the wrong person,” said Holmgren on whether he considers it a rivalry.

Victor Wembanyama hating the Thunder is so great for the NBA

If there's one man who could prevent the juggernaut Oklahoma City Thunder from having an extended "super" dynasty, it's Victor Wembanyama. That is not meant as disrespect to someone like Nikola Jokić. But as he turns 31 years old this February, he, a resurgent Jamal Murray, and the rest of the Denver Nuggets will realistically only duel with the Thunder for the NBA's crown for a few more years. They're a worthy adversary, but they won't be a roadblock the Thunder will have to overcome indefinitely.

It's different with Wembanyama. I don't just say that because he won't even be "feeling 22" until this January. I say it because his ceiling as a potential all-time talent — a 7-foot-4 basketball demon who shoots well from the 3-point line at volume and who could be the best rim protector ever at the same time — feels so untapped. I say it because we're likely only still scratching the surface of what Wembanyama can be at his absolute best. (Also, he might literally still be growing: height-wise, I mean.) The same sentiment applies to his burgeoning, upstart San Antonio Spurs, who are quickly learning how to win while building a culture that can last.

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