NBA Draft: Wembanyama receives hero's welcome in San Antonio

Hundreds of ardent San Antonio Spurs fans braved scorching temperatures as they eagerly awaited the arrival of Victor Wembanyama, the French basketball prodigy and newly anointed No.1 NBA Draft pick. 

Despite the blistering 38-degree Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) heat, approximately 300 excited fans gathered at San Antonio Airport, ready to extend a heartfelt welcome to the towering athlete.

Amidst a frenzied atmosphere, a private jet carrying Wembanyama touched down, and the cheers from the crowd intensified. Mistaken momentarily for his celebrated sibling, Oscar Wembanyama emerged from the plane, eliciting an uproarious roar from the fans. When Victor Wembanyama finally made his appearance, the enthusiastic crowd erupted into even louder cheers, accompanied by the endearing embrace of the San Antonio team's mascot, a coyote.

Wembanyama graciously obliged his devoted fans, engaging in selfies, signing autographs, and even exchanging handshakes with the police escort riders. The French forward's charismatic presence further fueled the fervor of the gathering, cementing the immense excitement that has swept through San Antonio since his selection as the No.1 draft pick.

"San Antonio is an incredible city with passionate fans, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the Spurs family," Wembanyama expressed, acknowledging the overwhelming reception. "I hope to contribute to the team's success and bring joy to the fans."

As the crowd continued to cheer, Wembanyama was whisked away, leaving behind an electrifying buzz. The Spurs' decision to select the 7ft 4in (2.24m) phenom has ignited renewed hope among fans, who anticipate a resurgence in the team's fortunes with his arrival.

Considered a once-in-a-generation talent, Wembanyama's exceptional skills have drawn comparisons to the likes of NBA superstar LeBron James, making him the most sought-after No.1 draft pick since James entered the league in 2003. With an awe-inspiring combination of height, athleticism, and basketball prowess, the French prodigy possesses the potential to redefine the Spurs' future.

San Antonio awaits with bated breath as Wembanyama prepares to be officially introduced by the Spurs in a special event scheduled for Saturday. The city's basketball enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the commencement of a new era, one where the towering French sensation could propel the Spurs to unprecedented heights of success.

In the words of one devoted fan, "We've been waiting for a player like Victor Wembanyama for years. He brings a new level of excitement and optimism to the franchise, and we can't wait to see what he accomplishes in a Spurs jersey."