Victor Wembanyama is locked in to be the top pick in the 2023 NBA draft but the 19-year-old believes his French teammate Bilal Coulibaly should also be a high selection on June 22.
Of course, the 7-foot-4 Wembanyama established himself as perhaps the top draft prospect since LeBron James in 2003 with his unique blend of size and ability. His pending arrival in the United States should ensure the San Antonio Spurs take a massive leap next season.
With so much attention on Wembanyama and the Metropolitans 92 this season, teams also had the opportunity to watch Coulibaly closely. The 18-year-old is projected to be a first-round pick this year and is viewed as a potential lottery selection.
Wembanyama believes he should be drafted even higher.
By now, everyone knows he deserves to be top 10. But not enough realize he deserves to be top 5 🤫 https://t.co/xmBexcuQgc
— Wemby (@vicw_32) June 4, 2023
Coulibaly started slowly this season but has improved as the year progressed and has put up some strong performances. He produced 16 points on Sunday as Metropolitans 92 won to advance to the LNB Finals versus Monaco starting on Saturday.
The 6-foot-6 forward has impressed on offense with his burst and ability to get downhill and finish at the rim. He has displayed great instincts on defense and can make an impact on that end of the court with his 7-foot, 3-inch wingspan.
Prior to playing with Metropolitans 92 this season, Coulibaly suited up with France in the 2022 FIBA U18 European Championship. He averaged 7.7 points, 3.9 rebounds and one assist in seven games as France finished in fifth place.
Like Wembanyama, Coulibaly will be a late arrival in the U.S. ahead of the draft with Metropolitans 92 still in the playoffs. However, the two will still be first-round picks after putting up strong campaigns.
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