Victor Wembanyama Working on Jump Hook with Hakeem Olajuwon

Victor Wembanyama is already one of the NBA’s most dominant defenders and continues to grow as an offensive force. Now the San Antonio Spurs’ young star is working on a signature move that could elevate his game even further: the jump hook. Wembanyama has been training with Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon and has added the shot to his arsenal, according to ESPN’s Michael C. Wright.

Wembanyama has made a strong case as the league’s best defensive player this season. He averages 2.8 blocks per game while shooting 68.4% from the field and 37.9% from three-point range. His ability to finish around the rim and create off the dribble has improved significantly since his rookie year. But in the halfcourt, he has struggled to consistently create offense, prompting suggestions that he develop a more reliable mid-range shot.

One of the most effective moves in NBA history is the sky hook, made famous by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. With Wembanyama’s 7-foot-3 frame and 7-foot-4 wingspan, the move would be nearly unguardable. Some have suggested Wembanyama train with Abdul-Jabbar to master it. Wright reported that Wembanyama already has a version in his repertoire.

“He's got it in his bag,” Wright wrote in response to a suggestion of working out with Abdul-Jabbar. “Just isn't comfortable enough just yet to use it in games. Hakeem Olajuwon told me the kid's got a jump hook that he's been working on.”

Olajuwon, who played 18 NBA seasons and won two MVP awards, is a natural mentor for Wembanyama. The two have trained together multiple times this season. Wembanyama is the first Spurs player since Tim Duncan to receive personal instruction from a Hall of Famer in this way.

The Spurs have seen Wembanyama’s game evolve in real time. He is averaging a career-high 22.3 points per game while shooting 67.9% from the field. His 8.5 rebounds per game rank in the top five among rookies. With the jump hook in his toolset, Wembanyama could become one of the most versatile offensive threats in the league.

Wembanyama’s development will be critical as the Spurs look to build toward the future. The team is currently sitting at 23-33 on the season but has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks. Wembanyama’s ability to add a mid-range weapon could change the way opponents game plan against him.

The Spurs face the Utah Jazz on Friday night. Wembanyama could see more minutes and an opportunity to showcase his new move. If he continues to develop at this pace, he may not need the sky hook for long.