Ralph Sampson’s advice for Victor Wembanyama: ‘Stay healthy’

Ralph Sampson sees enormous potential in Victor Wembanyama. He also knows how quickly a career can change.

“Stay healthy,” the former No. 1 overall pick told Kyle Odegard of Action Network. “That’s all I can say. Keep doing what you’re doing.”

Sampson is speaking from experience. The 7-foot-4 center made the All-Star team in each of his first four seasons with the Rockets before a knee injury altered the rest of his career. Wembanyama has already reached the NBA Finals with the Spurs, though he missed much of his second season because of a blood clot.

Sampson believes Wembanyama can become the player fans watch after LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant leave the game. He stopped short of predicting an MVP award for Wembanyama, reasoning that the games need to be played first.

The conversation turned to Sampson’s old team, too. He loves Durant’s game and believes his shooting will allow him to play for years, provided he stays healthy. As for the Rockets’ chances after injuries disrupted last season, Sampson thinks they can compete if they get their key players on the floor.

That was the theme of his interview, really. Talent can take you a long way. Sampson knows better than most that you have to be healthy enough to use it.

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