Health challenge changes direction

Victor Wembanyama's life took a significant turn at the beginning of 2025 when he was diagnosed with a venous thrombosis, forcing him to take a break from basketball for several months and reconsider his priorities. This experience led him to decide against playing a role, both on and off the court, emphasizing authenticity. "Life is so short, I don't-- I don't even want to waste it being somebody else, you know? Simple as that," Wembanyama said after a blood clot in his shoulder ended his second NBA season early.

Personal connection with teammates

Wembanyama's new approach also affects his relationship with teammates. During a summer training camp in France, he wanted to show them his country and demonstrate the care he has for them. "I wanted to show them sometimes the refinement, but also how I would take care of them, because it really matters to me. But their presence did more for me than for them, because I think it touched me right in the heart," he said.

San Antonio Spurs as a foundation

Wembanyama seems content with being part of the San Antonio Spurs, a franchise known for its success and identity. For the 2026 Defensive Player of the Year, San Antonio has proven to be the ideal environment to start his NBA career. "The franchise that had the greatest coach of all time (Gregg Popovich). The franchise that also has a rich French history. Yes, a winning franchise, simply," Wembanyama summarized.

Influence of Gregg Popovich

Wembanyama also spoke about the influence of Gregg Popovich, the former coach of the Spurs. Among the many lessons passed on by the coach, humility stands out. Wembanyama remembered a phrase often repeated by the five-time NBA champion coach: "After a win, you're rarely as good as you thought you were, and after a loss, you're rarely as bad as you thought you were." This principle encourages maintaining composure regardless of the result. For the young center, this philosophy is part of the Spurs' culture and what he wants to embody as a leader of the team that reached the finals last year.