History is constantly being written and redefined. Just 18 years after Howard set the glory of NBA history, this record was finally broken, and it was none other than the 19-year-old champion Wembanyama.
We go back to November 15, 2005, and it was a game of Magic vs. Bobcats. At just 19 years and 342 days, Howard, who was just an up-and-coming young player, stood on the biggest stage in the NBA and set an immortal record. In that game, he made 7 of 11 and 7 of 10 free throws to score 21 points, 20 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 block. He became the youngest player in NBA history to score 20 points and 20 points in a single game, and his name is forever etched in the annals of basketball history.
Today, however, 18 years later, a new star has emerged, at the age of 19 years and 339 days, Wembanyama. Wearing a Spurs jersey, he stood on the NBA stage and challenged Howard's record. In this game, Wembanyama scored an astonishing 21 points, 20 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal and 4 blocks with 8 of 20 and 5 of 6 free throws. While the Spurs failed to win the game, he has become the youngest player in NBA history to have 20 points and 20 rebounds in a single game, a full three days younger than Howard.
Wembanyama's rise to prominence is no accident. This season, he is averaging 19 points per game2 plates 25 assists 13 steals 27 blocks, showing impressive all-rounder strength. Although his shooting consistency leaves much to be desired, he has already shown strong defensive ability to keep opponents off. As long as he goes one step further in his shooting, he will surely become one of the most dangerous players in the NBA.
This match is not just a record-breaking match, but also a pinnacle matchup between two super-talented people who are under the age of 20. It showcased the incredible talent of the younger generation of players and heralded the evolution and rewriting of NBA history. History is constantly being redefined, and Wembanyama is the beginning of a new chapter.