Wemby Exception to Rule or New Standard?

The NBA is unlike any other American professional league for a myriad of reasons. One aspect that makes for a vastly different league is how the market-size difference significantly alters the NBA's landscape. However, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Denver Nuggets have won NBA championships in the past three seasons. According to Adam Silver, Victor Wembanyama is a glowing example of a new future for the NBA.

"In the old days, there was a sense then that there were certain markets you needed to get to if you really wanted to be a big star because of the nature of the way the media worked. I don't think that's the case anymore," Silver said.

Although Silver has a point in saying most players don't lean on larger markets for popularity, they are now self-branded due to their tech-savvy and increased social media presence.

However, networks such as ESPN advertise large-market propaganda.

For instance, the talents at ESPN try their best to get superstars or disgruntled All-Stars traded to the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers every season, regardless of their respective conference standings.

Silver spoke of Wembanyama as the shining example of a superstar who completely embraces a smaller market and does not let it affect his popularity.

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"Victor Wembanyama going to San Antonio, which is relative to other markets in this league a smaller market. I don't think there is anyone in the league saying Victor Wembanyama has a ceiling on his popularity in San Antonio as opposed to a team in a bigger market," Silver said.

The Spurs look to improve on two consecutive seasons of 22 wins.

While large vs. small markets dominate the industry, Gregg Popovich has five championships and the highest winning percentage of the 21st century, despite San Antonio's main attraction being the Alamo and the River Walk.

The Spurs couldn't care less about popularity.