Victor Wembanyama's whirlwind ride as the NBA's most expected No 1 draft pick since LeBron James has landed him right where he needs to be, the French phenomenon said in San Antonio.
The towering 19-year-old, hailed as a transforming talent due to the skills he packs in his 2.24-meter frame, was eagerly looking ahead to developing his game under the guidance of coach Gregg Popovich, with Spurs greats Tim Duncan, David Robinson and Manu Ginobili to call on for advice.
His rock-star-style welcome from fans at San Antonio's airport was followed by dinner with Duncan, Robinson and Ginobili.
"In probably a couple hours I learned more about the NBA than my whole life before," he said. "It's super-reassuring to know that these guys still live in San Antonio, they still gravitate towards the club, they've kept a relationship with the franchise.
"It's comforting to know that there are legends who are there to help me and who won't let me make the same mistakes twice."
The Spurs also boast a French connection, with both Tony Parker and Boris Diaw featuring on San Antonio's champion teams.
Fans awaiting Wembanyama's arrival ever since the Spurs gained the top pick in the draft will be thrilled to know that he can already envision living in the Texas city for a long time.
"I feel I belong here," he said. "Since I arrived, I've seen nothing but grateful people, so it's easy to acclimatize when you're already appreciated."
His first taste of competition in a Spurs jersey is expected to come in Summer League games next month.
