Wembanyama officially declares for the 2023 NBA draft

Projected number one pick for the 2023 NBA draft, Victor Wembanyama, has officially confirmed his participation.

The 19-year-old Frenchman is one of the most highly-anticipated picks in recent history, with all eyes on the draft lottery on May 15 where the team that gets the number one selection will be confirmed, almost certainly determining Wembanyama's destination.

He is averaging 21.5 points, 9.9 rebounds, 3.1 blocks and 2.3 assists per game in France, and stands at seven-foot, five inches tall.

Speaking to ESPN, Wembanyama confirmed he has submitted his paperwork to the NBA to declare himself for the draft, which will take place on June 22.

"Declaring for the draft ... it's something crazy I'm not realising yet," he said. "I realised pretty young I wanted to play in the NBA but it becomes a reality more every day. I'm so lucky to have this dream within the reach of my hand."

Let’s rock #outtathisworld https://t.co/qFq79Y2aF0
— Wemby (@vicw_32) April 21, 2023

Wembanyama also said he is preparing himself for the physical rigours of the NBA, aiming to make himself robust enough for what the league will throw at him.

"I've been working more than ever on my body with my personal trainer Guillaume [Alquier]," he said. "I'm ready to go over all sorts of obstacles. So far it's worked pretty well. I haven't missed a game yet. I've been there for my guys every game.

"There's so many games in an NBA season. It's hard to play all 82 games, some players are built a certain way. Others got to rest. My goal is to play the most games I can, and help my team as much as I can."