Victor Wembanyama has changed his mind about representing France in the FIBA World Cup this summer, writes Brian Windhorst of ESPN. The No. 1 pick in this year’s draft made the announcement in an interview with the French newspaper L’Equipe, saying he plans to focus on getting ready for his rookie season with the Spurs.
“It would not be realistic in terms of development and not prudent in terms of health,” Wembanyama said. “I hope people will understand. It’s frustrating for me, too. The France team is still central for me. I want to win as many titles as possible with the team. But I think it’s a necessary sacrifice.”
Wembanyama indicated that the World Cup would have been too much to add to his schedule after leading his Metropolitans 92 team to the French League finals, a series that didn’t end until June 15. He traveled to New York for last week’s draft, then boarded a plane to San Antonio, where he was introduced at a press conference Saturday afternoon.
Wembanyama intends to play for France in the 2024 Olympics, which means a full summer of basketball after his rookie season concludes. After 62 games with Metropolitans and possibly 82 in the NBA – or more if the Spurs reach the postseason – the 7’4″ power forward determined that he might be subjecting himself to approximately 170 games within 24 months if he participates in the World Cup as well.
Wembanyama still plans to be active for at least some of San Antonio’s Summer League games. The Spurs will take part in the California Classic beginning next Monday before moving on to the Las Vegas league. He said the team would have supported his decision whether he played in the World Cup or not, adding that he chose to sit out after talking to his personal medical staff.
France won the silver medal in the most recent Olympics and was considered among the favorites in the World Cup. The tournament will take place from Aug. 25 to Sept. 10 in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia.
San Antonio said HELL NO
No they didn’t
Sacrifices.
Smart move …… he needs to fill out. Before he starts taking on other playing responsibilities.
Yao was never the same after playing hurt for China.
You’re obsessed with skinny players filling out. Certain body types don’t really change. Sure, he’ll get stronger as he gets older but even with Giannis levels of steroids/nutrition/supplements he’s never going to look like Giannis. His mom is a 6’3″ basketball player, his dad is a 6’6″ track athlete – both are slender builds.
He doesn’t need to defend Shaq. He’ll be paired – as he was at both French clubs – with a tough rebounding centre.
As much as I like Sochan, he might be too small to play next to Webanyama.
Good idea. Look at Danilo Gallinari. Gallinari got hurt and missed the 2023 season. Spurs are smart.
2024 at home for the olympics in Paris…allez les bleus !