Tracy McGrady’s Bold Call: Why Victor Wembanyama Deserves Weekly National TV Games

In the fast-paced world of NBA basketball, few rookies have generated as much hype as Victor Wembanyama. Standing at a towering 7’4” with a skill set that blends shot-blocking dominance, three-point shooting, and ball-handling finesse, the French phenom has already drawn comparisons to legends like Kevin Durant and Rudy Gobert. But according to NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady, the league isn’t doing enough to showcase this generational talent. In a recent interview, McGrady argued that Wembanyama should be featured in weekly national TV games—a rare demand for a first-year player. So, why does this matter, and what would it mean for the NBA, fans, and the sport’s future?

This isn’t just about one player’s stardom. It’s about how the NBA markets its next superstar, the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, and the way fans consume basketball in the digital age. Whether you’re a die-hard Spurs fan, a casual viewer, or a fantasy basketball manager, Wembanyama’s rise—and McGrady’s call to action—could reshape how we watch the game. Let’s break down why this debate is more than just hype.

—

Who Is Victor Wembanyama, and Why Is He a Big Deal?

Before diving into McGrady’s argument, it’s worth understanding why Wembanyama is already being discussed as a once-in-a-generation talent. Drafted first overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2023 NBA Draft, the 20-year-old has quickly become the league’s most talked-about rookie since LeBron James. Here’s what sets him apart:

The Physical Freak

Height and Wingspan: At 7’4” with an 8’0” wingspan, Wembanyama combines the size of a traditional center with the mobility of a guard. His ability to switch onto smaller players defensively is reminiscent of prime Kevin Garnett.
Shooting Range: Unlike most big men, Wembanyama can comfortably drain three-pointers, forcing defenders to guard him beyond the arc—a nightmare for opposing coaches.
Ball-Handling: He’s been seen bringing the ball up the court in transition, a skill rarely seen in players his size. Think Giais Antetokounmpo’s versatility but with a jump shot.

The Stats and Highlights

Even in his rookie season, Wembanyama has put up numbers that justify the hype:

Averaging 20+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 3+ blocks per game in his first month—a feat only achieved by a handful of rookies iBA history.
Multiple 50-point, 10-block performances in the G League before his NBA debut, showcasing his two-way dominance.
Virality on social media, with clips of his no-look passes, chase-down blocks, and step-back threes going viral within minutes.

For context, even Tim Duncan, the Spurs’ legendary big man, didn’t have this level of immediate impact as a rookie. Wembanyama isn’t just good for a first-year player—he’s redefining what a moderBA center can do.

The Global Appeal

Wembanyama isn’t just an American story. Born in France to Congolese parents, he represents the NBA’s growing international influence. His games draw massive viewership from Europe and Africa, making him a global marketing asset for the league. The NBA has long prioritized expanding its fanbase beyond the U.S., and Wembanyama is a perfect ambassador for that mission.

—

Tracy McGrady’s Argument: Why Weekly National TV Games?

Tracy McGrady, a seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time scoring champion, knows a thing or two about stardom. During his playing days, McGrady was one of the league’s most electrifying scorers, and he’s seen firsthand how the NBA promotes its biggest names. His call for Wembanyama to get weekly national TV games isn’t just about giving a rookie more screen time—it’s a strategic move with far-reaching implications.

1. The NBA’s History of Superstar Treatment

The league has a long tradition of building its schedule around marquee players. Here’s how it’s worked in the past:

Michael Jordan: In the 1990s, the NBA frequently scheduled Bulls games oational TV, even against lesser teams, because Jordan was a ratings guarantee.
LeBron James: Since entering the league in 2003, LeBron’s teams have consistently been featured in prime-time slots, regardless of their record.
Stephen Curry: The Warriors’ rise to dynasty status coincided with Curry’s three-point revolution, and the NBA capitalized by broadcasting their games nationally.

McGrady’s point? If the NBA believes Wembanyama is the next face of the league, it should treat him like one—now, not after he’s already established.

2. The Business Case: Ratings and Revenue

National TV games aren’t just about entertainment—they’re a multi-billion-dollar business. Here’s why Wembanyama could be a ratings goldmine:

Curiosity Factor: Casual fans tune in to see what the hype is about. Even if the Spurs aren’t title contenders yet, Wembanyama’s highlight-reel plays could draw viewers.
Fantasy Basketball Boom: Wembanyama is a top-5 fantasy pick in many leagues, meaning millions of fans have a vested interest in his performance.
Social Media Buzz: Clips of Wembanyama’s best plays generate millions of views on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, which translates to higher TV ratings.

For comparison, when Luka Dončić entered the league in 2018, his games saw a 20% ratings boost oational TV compared to other rookie-led teams. Wembanyama’s potential could be even greater.

3. The Competitive Angle: Raising the League’s Profile

The NBA thrives on superstar rivalries. Think Magic vs. Bird, Kobe vs. Shaq, or LeBron vs. Durant. By giving Wembanyama more national exposure, the league can:

Create must-watch matchups against other young stars like Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, and Scoot Henderson.
Accelerate Wembanyama’s development by putting him in high-pressure, high-visibility games.
Counterbalance the dominance of established stars like Jokić, Embiid, and Giais with a fresh, marketable face.

McGrady put it bluntly: “If you’ve got a guy who can change the game like this, you’ve got to put him on display. The league needs to strike while the iron’s hot.”

—

How National TV Exposure Works in the NBA

Not all NBA games are created equal. While every team plays 82 games in a season, only a select few are broadcast nationally oetworks like ESPN, TNT, and ABC. Here’s how the process works—and why Wembanyama’s inclusion would be a big deal.

The National TV Schedule: Who Gets the Spotlight?

The NBA’s national TV schedule is determined by a mix of:

Team Success: Contenders like the Celtics, Nuggets, and Bucks get the most prime-time slots.
Star Power: Players like LeBron, Curry, and Jokić are almost always featured, regardless of their team’s record.
Market Size: Big-market teams (Lakers, Knicks, Warriors) tend to get more national games due to their large fanbases.
Storylines: Rivalries, playoff rematches, and milestone games (e.g., a player’s return to their former team) also factor in.

Historically, rookies rarely get national TV games unless they’re on a contending team or have an extraordinary impact (like LeBron in 2003). Wembanyama is the exception—his combination of skill, size, and global appeal makes him a unique case.

The Current State of Spurs’ TV Coverage

As of the 2023-24 season, the Spurs are not a playoff team, which means most of their games are broadcast regionally on Bally Sports Southwest. While local fans can watch, the majority of NBA viewers rely oational broadcasts to see out-of-market games. Here’s the breakdown:

ESPN/ABD: The Spurs are scheduled for only 5 national games in the 2023-24 season—none of which are guaranteed to feature Wembanyama prominently.
TNT: The Spurs have 3 games on TNT, but they’re often flexed out if a more competitive matchup emerges.
NBA League Pass: While fans can pay to watch every Spurs game, the subscription model isn’t as accessible as free national TV.

McGrady’s argument is that this isn’t enough for a player of Wembanyama’s caliber. For comparison, Paolo Banchero (the 2022-23 Rookie of the Year) had 12 national TV games in his first season—more than double Wembanyama’s current total.

How Could the NBA Make This Happen?

If the league wanted to give Wembanyama weekly national exposure, here’s how it could work:

Flex Scheduling: The NBA already uses flex scheduling for the last month of the season, swapping out less appealing games for higher-profile matchups. They could extend this to include Wembanyama’s best performances.
Dedicated Rookie Showcases: TNT’s “Players Only” broadcasts or ESPN’s “NBA in Stephen A.’s World” could feature Wembanyama-centric games, similar to how they’ve highlighted Ja Morant and Zion Williamson in the past.
International Broadcasts: The NBA could partner with global networks like NBA League Pass International or Eurosport to ensure Wembanyama’s games are accessible worldwide.
Social Media Integration: Highlight packages, live tweets, and in-game interviews (like TNT’s “Inside the NBA” segments) could amplify his exposure even when he’s not oational TV.

The key is consistency. A few national games here and there won’t cut it—Wembanyama needs a sustained platform to build his brand and keep fans engaged.

—

Potential Challenges and Counterarguments

While McGrady’s proposal has merit, it’s not without its critics. Here are some of the biggest counterarguments—and why they might not hold up.

1. “The Spurs Aren’t a Contender—Why Showcase Them?”

Traditionally, national TV games prioritize competitive teams. The Spurs, in the midst of a rebuild, don’t fit that mold. However:

Individual Brilliance > Team Success: Fans tune in to see stars, not just wins. Even when the Knicks were struggling in the 2010s, Carmelo Anthony still got national TV games.
Long-Term Investment: The NBA benefits from growing Wembanyama’s fanbase now, even if the Spurs aren’t title threats yet.

2. “Too Much Pressure on a Rookie”

Some argue that putting Wembanyama in the national spotlight every week could be overwhelming. But:

He’s Handled It Before: Wembanyama played in high-pressure environments in France’s LNB Pro A and the G League, often dominating against older, more experienced players.
Mental Toughness: By all accounts, Wembanyama has a calm, professional demeanor—unfazed by media attention or big moments.

3. “What About Other Young Stars?”

Critics might ask: Why Wembanyama and not Chet Holmgren, Scoot Henderson, or Brandon Miller? The answer lies in:

Unmatched Hype: Wembanyama’s combination of size, skill, and global appeal is unprecedented. Even Zion Williamson, the last “next big thing,” didn’t have this level of two-way dominance as a rookie.
Marketability: Wembanyama’s French-Congolese background and fluency in multiple languages make him a global icon in the making.

4. “National TV Slots Are Limited”

With only so many prime-time slots available, the NBA can’t feature every star equally. But:

Flexibility: The league could adjust its scheduling to include more Wembanyama games, especially against other young stars (e.g., Spurs vs. Thunder, Spurs vs. Magic).
Digital Expansion: With the rise of NBA League Pass and streaming platforms, the league isn’t limited to traditional TV. They could create exclusive Wembanyama broadcasts oBA TV or YouTube.

—

What This Means for Fans, Fantasy Players, and the NBA’s Future

McGrady’s call isn’t just about one player—it’s about how the NBA adapts to a changing media landscape. Here’s how this debate impacts different stakeholders:

For Casual Fans: More Must-Watch Basketball

If Wembanyama gets weekly national TV games, casual viewers benefit from:

More Highlight-Reel Moments: His combination of blocks, threes, and dunks makes for appointment viewing—the kind of basketball that turns casual fans into die-hards.
Easier Access: No need for League Pass or regional blackouts; fans can watch on ESPN, TNT, or ABC.
A New Rivalry Era: Imagine Wembanyama vs. Jokić, Wembanyama vs. Embiid, or Wembanyama vs. Giais becoming aual must-see events.

For Fantasy Basketball Managers: A Game-Changer

Wembanyama is already a top-10 fantasy asset in many leagues, thanks to his across-the-board production. More national TV games mean:

Better Scouting: Fantasy players can watch his games live instead of relying on box scores or highlights.
Increased Trade Value: As his profile grows, so does his fantasy stock—making him a coveted asset in trades.
Injury and Usage Updates: National broadcasts often include in-depth analysis, giving fantasy managers insights into his role and workload.

For the NBA: A Long-Term Investment

The league’s success depends on star power and storytelling. By giving Wembanyama a bigger platform, the NBA can:

Grow Its Global Audience: Wembanyama’s international appeal could help the NBA expand in Europe and Africa, where basketball is rapidly growing.
Create a New Marketing Pipeline: Just as the league built around LeBron, Curry, and Durant, Wembanyama could be the centerpiece of the NBA’s next era.
Increase Merchandise and Sponsorship Revenue: More exposure = more jersey sales, shoe deals (he’s already signed with Nike), and endorsement opportunities.

For the Spurs: A Faster Rebuild

San Antonio is in the midst of a rebuild, but Wembanyama’s stardom could accelerate the process by:

Attracting Free Agents: Players want to join teams with superstar talent. If Wembanyama is marketed as the NBA’s next big thing, veterans may be more willing to sign with the Spurs.
Increasing Ticket Sales: More national exposure = more fans wanting to see him live, boosting attendance and revenue.
Developing Younger Players: Playing alongside a superstar like Wembanyama could help the Spurs’ other young talents (like Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan) grow faster.

—

How Fans Can Watch Wembanyama Now (And What to Expect)

While the debate over national TV games continues, here’s how fans can catch Wembanyama in action right now—and what to look for when they do.

Where to Watch Spurs Games

Regional Broadcasts: Most Spurs games air on Bally Sports Southwest (available through cable providers or streaming services like DIRECTV Stream or FuboTV).
National TV: Check the NBA schedule for Spurs games on ESPN, TNT, or ABC (though these are limited).
NBA League Pass: The most comprehensive option, allowing fans to watch every Spurs game live or on-demand. Pro tip: Use the “Team Choice” feature to follow only the Spurs at a discounted rate.
Social Media Highlights: Follow @NBA, @spurs, and @vicw_32 on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok for real-time updates and viral clips.

What to Watch For in Wembanyama’s Game

When tuning in, keep an eye on these aspects of Wembanyama’s play:

Defensive Versatility: His ability to switch onto guards and still protect the rim is unprecedented for a player his size. Watch how he navigates pick-and-rolls.
Three-Point Shooting: At 7’4”, his shooting form is surprisingly fluid. Pay attention to how defenders guard him beyond the arc.
Playmaking: Wembanyama averages 3+ assists per game—rare for a center. Look for his no-look passes and court vision.
Clutch Performances: Even as a rookie, he’s shown a knack for late-game heroics. Check the fourth-quarter stats when the Spurs are in close games.

A Quick Guide to Following Wembanyama’s Stats

For fantasy players or stats enthusiasts, here are the best resources:

NBA.com/Stats: Track his points, rebounds, blocks, and advanced metrics like Player Efficiency Rating (PER) and Win Shares.
Basketball Reference: Compare his rookie season to other legends like Tim Duncan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Ralph Sampson.
Fantasy Apps: ESPN Fantasy, Yahoo Fantasy, and Sleeper provide real-time updates on his performance.

—

The Bigger Picture: How the NBA Can Evolve with Wembanyama

Tracy McGrady’s call for weekly national TV games isn’t just about one player—it’s a microcosm of how the NBA must adapt in the streaming era. Here’s what the future could hold:

1. A Shift Toward Player-Centric Scheduling

The NBA has always been a star-driven league, but the rise of social media and streaming means fans now follow players more than teams. The league could experiment with:

“Superstar Saturdays”: Dedicated weekly broadcasts featuring the game’s biggest names, regardless of team records.
Flexible Prime-Time Slots: Instead of locking in teams months in advance, the NBA could adjust its schedule based on real-time player performances and storylines.

2. Globalization of the Game

Wembanyama’s French roots and Congolese heritage make him a global ambassador for basketball. The NBA could leverage this by:

Expanding International Broadcasts: Partnering with networks in Europe, Africa, and Asia to ensure Wembanyama’s games are accessible worldwide.
Hosting Global Events: Imagine an NBA Africa Game or NBA Paris Game centered around Wembanyama, similar to how the league has used LeBron James and Giais Antetokounmpo to grow the game internationally.

3. The Rise of the “Unicorn” Big Man

Wembanyama is the latest in a line of versatile, do-it-all big men (think Nikola Jokić, Giais, and Kristaps Porziņģis). His success could accelerate the trend toward:

Positionless Basketball: Teams may prioritize skill over size, drafting more big men who can shoot, handle, and defend multiple positions.
Defensive Scheme Iovations: Coaches will need to develop new strategies to counter players like Wembanyama, who can guard 1-through-5 while also being offensive threats.

4. The Role of Social Media in Player Marketing

Wembanyama’s highlights spread like wildfire on TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. The NBA could capitalize on this by:

Creating Exclusive Digital Content: Behind-the-scenes footage, mic’d-up segments, and interactive fan Q&As.
Partnering with Influencers: Collaborating with basketball content creators to amplify Wembanyama’s reach among younger audiences.
Live-Streaming Games: Experimenting with free, ad-supported streams on platforms like YouTube or Twitch to attract cord-cutters.

—

Conclusion: Why McGrady Is Right—and What It Means for Basketball

Tracy McGrady’s call for Victor Wembanyama to receive weekly national TV games isn’t just a bold take—it’s a necessary evolution for the NBA. In an era where attention spans are short and competition for viewership is fierce, the league can’t afford to wait for Wembanyama to “prove himself” before giving him the spotlight. The evidence is already there:

He’s a generational talent with a skill set we’ve never seen before.
He’s a global icon who can grow the NBA’s fanbase beyond the U.S.
He’s box-office gold, capable of drawing casual fans and fantasy players alike.

The NBA has a history of building its brand around superstars, from Magic and Bird to Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron. Wembanyama represents the next chapter—and the league would be wise to treat him as such.

For fans, this means more must-watch basketball, more viral highlights, and a front-row seat to history. For the NBA, it’s an opportunity to secure its future by investing in a player who could define the next decade. And for Wembanyama? It’s a chance to prove that the hype is real—and that he’s ready to carry the torch as the face of the league.

So, will the NBA listen to McGrady? Time will tell. But one thing is clear: Victor Wembanyama isn’t just the future of the Spurs—he’s the future of basketball. And the sooner we all get to watch him, the better.

—

How You Can Be Part of the Wembanyama Era

Want to follow Wembanyama’s journey as it unfolds? Here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:

Watch Every Game: Subscribe to NBA League Pass or set reminders for Spurs games oational TV.
Engage on Social Media: Follow @vicw_32 and #Wembanyama for real-time updates and highlights.
Join the Fantasy Hype: Draft Wembanyama in your fantasy league or pick him up in daily fantasy contests—his stats are elite.
Rep the Gear: Grab a Spurs #1 jersey and represent the next big thing in basketball.

The Wembanyama era is just begiing. Don’t miss it.

—

Tags: basketball, basketball highlights, fantasy basketball, global basketball, national TV games, NBA, NBA broadcasting, NBA future, NBA schedule, rookie sensation, San Antonio Spurs, sports marketing, Tracy McGrady, unicorn players, Victor Wembanyama

Kebun Firdaus