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Victor Wembanyama vs. Chet Holmgren: The 2024 Rookie of the Year Race Heats Up

December 25, 20244

Introduction: A Historic Rookie Class Collides

The 2023-24 NBA season brought us one of the most exciting rookie duels in recent memory, with 7’4″ phenom Victor Wembanyama vs. Chet Holmgren and 7’1″ unicorn Chet Holmgren putting on a show. Now, as we approach December 2024, their sophomore campaigns have elevated both players into All-Star conversations while reigniting their Rookie of the Year battle from last season.

This in-depth analysis covers:
✔ Statistical breakdowns through December 2024
✔ Key strengths and weaknesses for each player
✔ Impact on their teams’ playoff chances
✔ Expert predictions on who’s leading the ROY race
✔ How their rivalry compares to other NBA greats

Whether you’re Victor Wembanyama vs. Chet Holmgren, this is the definitive guide to basketball’s most fascinating young rivalry.

The Contenders: By the Numbers

Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)

Height: 7’4″ | Age: 20
December 2024 Stats:
- 23.8 PPG | 10.2 RPG | 3.4 BPG
- 48% FG | 36% 3PT
Advanced Metrics:
- 25.3 PER | 6.2 Win Shares
- +5.1 On/Off Rating

Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder)

Height: 7’1″ | Age: 22
December 2024 Stats:
- 21.4 PPG | 8.9 RPG | 2.8 BPG
- 53% FG | 41% 3PT
Advanced Metrics:
- 23.8 PER | 5.9 Win Shares
- +7.3 On/Off Rating

Key Takeaway: While Victor Wembanyama vs. Chet Holmgren leads in raw production, Holmgren’s efficiency and team success give him a compelling case.

Breaking Down Their Games

Wembanyama’s Superpowers

Unprecedented Length: Alters more shots than any player since prime Rudy Gobert
Offensive Versatility: Can score from the post, mid-range, and three (36% from deep)
Passing Vision: Averages 3.9 APG – elite for a big man
Clutch Gene: Already has 3 game-winning shots this season

Holmgren’s Advantages

Shooting Touch: 41% from three on 5 attempts per game
Defensive IQ: Fewer blocks than Wemby but better positioning
Team Fit: Perfect stretch-five for OKC’s young core
Durability: Hasn’t missed a game since returning from injury

“Wembanyama is the more spectacular player, but Holmgren might be the more complete one right now.” – NBA NewsZ

Team Impact: Who’s More Valuable?

Spurs With Wembanyama

Record: 18-14 (7th in West)
Net Rating: +3.2 with Wemby on court
Biggest Improvement: Defense (up from 28th to 12th)

Thunder With Holmgren

Record: 22-10 (3rd in West)
Net Rating: +8.1 with Chet on court
Biggest Improvement: Three-point shooting (1st in NBA)

Verdict: Holmgren’s Thunder are further ahead, but Wembanyama has transformed the Spurs faster than expected.

The ROY Race: Who’s Ahead in December 2024?

Case for Wembanyama

Higher scoring and rebounding numbers
More highlight-reel plays driving social media buzz
Carrying a less talented Spurs roster

Case for Holmgren

Better shooter and more efficient scorer
Playing winning basketball for a contender
Fewer turnovers and fouls per game

“It’s the classic stats vs. winning debate. Right now, Holmgren has the slight edge.” – ESPN Analytics

Historical Context: How This Rivalry Stacks Up

Modern NBA Rookie Comparisons

Rivalry	Years	ROY Winner
Wemby vs. Chet	2023-24	Wembanyama
Luka vs. Trae	2018-19	Luka Dončić
LeBron vs. Melo	2003-04	LeBron James

Fun Fact: This is the first time two 7-footers have been in such a close ROY race since the merger.

What’s Next? Predictions for Rest of Season

All-Star Appearances: Both likely make their first ASG
Playoff Push: OKC could secure top-4 seed; Spurs fighting for play-in
Award Race: Could come down to their head-to-head matchups

Key Dates:

Jan 15, 2025: Next Thunder vs. Spurs matchup
Feb 18: All-Star Game in San Francisco
Apr 10: Final regular season meeting

Fan Reactions: The Social Media Divide

Twitter polls show:

52% believe Holmgren will win ROY
48% still back Wembanyama

“This debate is splitting NBA Twitter down the middle!” – NBA NewsZ

Final Verdict: Too Close to Call

As of December 2024, here’s our assessment:

✔ Holmgren leads in efficiency and team success
✔ Wembanyama leads in raw stats and highlights
✔ Race could come down to March/April performances

One thing’s certain: The NBA hasn’t seen a rookie rivalry this compelling since Victor Wembanyama vs. Chet Holmgren