In a heated Texas rivalry, the San Antonio Spurs hosted the Houston Rockets on Saturday, sparking fresh drama between Victor Wembanyama and Dillon Brooks. While the Texas basketball rivalry isn’t as intense as some in the NBA, Brooks didn’t hold back on his competitive spirit, making it clear he’s here to disrupt. The real action kicked off in the third quarter when Wembanyama and Brooks found themselves tangled up in a fierce struggle for possession, each refusing to yield. Despite the referee’s whistle, Brooks clung to the ball, resulting in a clash that sent both players crashing to the court and forced the benches to step in to separate them.
This showdown wasn’t the first for Wembanyama and Brooks. Their rivalry has simmered since Wembanyama’s rookie season, with Brooks quick to downplay the towering Frenchman’s talent, calling him “just a tall player.” But Wembanyama quickly silenced critics with his impressive game. In their first matchup, Wembanyama led the Spurs to a 126-122 victory, posting 21 points, 12 rebounds, three blocks, and three steals, making it clear he’s a force to be reckoned with.
However, Wembanyama’s early triumph was short-lived. The Rockets clinched the next three games, solidifying Brooks’ stance. But the rivalry wasn’t confined to the NBA courts; it reignited on an international stage during the 2024 Olympics, where Wembanyama had his revenge. Facing Brooks and Team Canada in his home country, Wembanyama led France to victory, knocking out Brooks’ squad and marking a sweet moment of redemption.
As the 2024-25 NBA season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling battles between these two. With both players now in the same conference, they’re destined to cross paths repeatedly, adding new layers to their competitive dynamic. Each matchup carries the weight of past clashes, setting the stage for intense showdowns and unforgettable moments. The rivalry between Wembanyama and Brooks promises to be one of the season’s most electrifying stories, and fans are eager to see who will come out on top in this ongoing duel.