Victor Wembanyama dropped another 40-point performance and moved past several Spurs legends in the process against the Bulls.
It was another game and another victory for San Antonio, as the Spurs took down the Chicago Bulls 129-114 inside Frost Bank Center.
While winning has become almost an expectation for the Spurs - they've won 24 of their last 26 - Monday's victory meant more than just wins and losses for one Spur.
San Antonio sensation Victor Wembanyama had another masterful performance, with 41 points, 16 rebounds, four assists and three blocks. The de-facto leader of the team has excelled during their lengthy winning stretch. He's been masterful on both ends of the floor and played his way into serious contention for his first NBA MVP Award.
While Wemby's excellence has been on full display all season long, his 41-point total against Chicago was his highest of the year. It also marked the seventh 40-point game in his career, which is only in its third year.
The feat not only made history for Wemby personally, it moved him into elite company within the illustrious Spurs organization. With his seventh 40-point game, he moved past San Antonio staple Manu Ginobili for fourth-most in team history. He also now has more performances of 40 or more than Spurs legends Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Kawhi Leonard.
The only Spurs sitting in front of Wemby on list are Mike Mitchell, David Robinson and George "Iceman" Gervin. Mitchell could be eclipsed as early as this season, sitting at 10 total, but it may take a while to catch cornerstones Robinson and Gervin, who have 22 and a whopping 67, respectively.
To be listed amongst pillars of San Antonio history is no small feat for Wembanyama. After floundering for many seasons following the departure of these icons, the Spurs have found the true next figure to carry the torch.
The accomplishment also comes in a historic season for San Antonio, where they are playoff bound for the first time since 2019. The Spurs are also knocking on the doorstep of 60 wins after not reaching the mark since 2017. They could reach as many as 64 wins, which would set a new record for second-most in Spurs history.
Alongside his personal achievements, the team's success gives Wembanyama a chance to truly cement his legacy in San Antonio. He is making his first trip to the NBA Playoffs and will be looked upon to lead the Spurs to their sixth championship.
His numbers already reflect San Antonio's past legends, but his ability to replicate their championship caliber has yet to be seen. If he can hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy at the end of the NBA Finals this season, he will really enter rarified air that even others in front of him on individual accolade lists can't reach.