Perhaps the most notable thing to happen in Wenyen Gabriel’s career up to this point is when Adrian Wajonoosker announced that he (Gabriel) had been traded from the Kings to the Blazers as part of the Bazemore/Ariza swap. The tweet itself wasn’t that notable except it identified Gabriel as “Wendell Gabriel”. Ouch. The disrespect stings, but the disrespect also elevated Gabriel’s national profile slightly. Very very slightly, but, in this case, any press was good press.
The second most notable thing to happen in Wenyen Gabriel’s career up to this point is actually happening right now. The illustrious, revered, inimitable, award-winning NBA highlights channel DownToBuck has uploaded a video of him.
Okay, so I haven’t won any awards. But if there was an award that went to YouTube highlight makers, not just of the NBA but of any sport, I would definitely win it. Or get runner-up. Or get thanked in the speech by the person who did win while I cry bitter tears of sorrow and try to be gracious.
Thanks to my efforts, Gabriel is on the map as a legitimate role-player in this league. How legitimate, you ask? Just watch the video and find out! Note that he has dunks, layups, jumpshots, and free throws in his arsenal. Those are all very legit things. Would he be getting minutes if the Blazers had all players available and healthy? No, of course not. That’s why you should cherish this video as closely as you would a first-born child.