“I don’t know if I can talk about specific expectations, I want to learn to win as quickly as possible,” Victor Wembanyama said on Monday, eagerly awaited for his NBA debut with the San Antonio Spurs on October 25.

The 19-year-old Frenchman, described as an “extraterrestrial” by basketball star LeBron James, arouses immense expectations after being chosen No. 1 in the NBA Draft in June by the Texan franchise.

“I don’t know if I can talk about specific expectations, I want to learn to win as quickly as possible,” said Wembanyama during the Spurs media day.

The Texan franchise has not played in the play-offs since 2019 and only won 22 games last season (60 defeats).

“I am one of the least experienced players, I have a lot to learn, above all I am happy to be here,” he noted.

When asked about a possible leadership position on the team, “Wemby” replied that “those things will come naturally.”

“For me the best way to be a leader is to set an example on the field. It starts with defending well.”

“He adapted brilliantly,” praised his trainer Gregg Popovich, Tony Parker’s former mentor. He is very mature for his age. He’s cerebral, he’s very intelligent, and he’s a good guy. He had no problem when he arrived to gain the respect of his teammates, understand his environment and his new responsibilities.

The NBA resumes on October 24, with a first game for the Spurs at home on the 25th against Dallas in the Texas derby.