Victor Wembanyama Hype is Real

San Antonio Spurs rookie center Victor Wembanyama is already one of the most talked about names in the NBA, and rightfully so. The 7-foot-5 first-overall pick from France has created an almost unstoppable Wembanyama hype train. His global reach has permeated nearly every aspect of the NBA universe, and his popularity seems only to be growing among fans of the game and bettors at our best sports betting apps.

The latest example of just how popular Wembanyama already is, through just 17 games in his NBA career, came Tuesday, when one of his game-worn jerseys sold at a Sotheby’s auction, alongside other NBA game-worn jerseys for a whopping $762,000.

Record price for a rookie jersey

There is no denying Wembanyama's popularity among NBA fans. He is perhaps the most anticipated superstar arrival to the league since LeBron James.

The Sotheby's description of game-worn jersey read, "This jersey is a generational opportunity to own an iconic piece of the 'Wemby' story."

The Sotheby's auction website initially estimated Wembanyama's game-worn jersey to be worth between $80,000 and $120,000, making the $762,000 final price tag not only a bit of a shock but also perhaps a sign of things to come as his career progresses.

The Wembanyama sale price is a record for a rookie jersey during a rookie season.

By comparison, no other jersey at that same auction received more than a $50,000 bid. The auction included jerseys worn by James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry.

What $762K buys you

The Wembanyama jersey that sold for the lofty price was the one the 7-foot-5-inch generational talent wore during his NBA debut. The jersey was worn only for the second half of that game, a timeframe in which the superstar woke up to have a serious impact, proving to the world why he has been touted for so long.

The game was a 126-119 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on the Spurs' home court. Wembanyama scored 15 points with five rebounds. Through 17 games, he's averaged 19 points per game, 11 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.6 blocks.

Wembanyama's arrival and strong early play haven't exactly helped his Spurs' team climb the NBA ladder. They are 3-14 through 17 games, and they have much work to do to be competitive.

Sportsbook impact

Our best sports betting sites and sportsbooks worldwide have kept an eye on what Victor Wembanyama has accomplished in his young career. His impact on global sportsbooks cannot be underestimated despite being on one of the worst teams in the NBA.

Futures bets on Wembanyama have been brisk as he is almost a shoo-in for the NBA’s Rookie of the Year Award. His play so far also has the French superstar in the betting conversation to become NBA MVP and perhaps Defensive Player of the Year.

Prop betting on Wembanyama has been strong each and every game that he has played so far.