Even though Victor Wembanyama was just selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs, he was still planning to play for his home country of France in the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup. But it appears those plans have changed.
This week, Victor Wembanyama announced that he has decided not to play for France in this summer’s FIBA World Cup, after all. Instead, the young basketball phenom plans to focus on preparing for his rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs as well as next year’s Paris Olympics, where he will compete for France.
“It would not be realistic in terms of development and not prudent in terms of health,” Wembanyama said in announcing his decision to French newspaper L’Equipe, according to ESPN. “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.”
It’s a major announcement from basketball’s biggest young star, and the NBA world had plenty of reactions on social media.
Not surprised.
He’s had an overwhelming season and summer as it is.
If he truly wants to play in as many games as possible his rookie season, he has to get some rest and put in some work on his core this summer right after Summer League. https://t.co/fvY84W6meA
— Eric Salinas (@EricSal_7) June 26, 2023
Absolutely shocked by this decision. However, it’s understandable knowing he’ll need to be ready for the NBA Summer League.
(If he does decide to play a few games) https://t.co/0TypVusaay
— brandon (@BranH2001) June 26, 2023
Makes sense, he needs all the time he can get in preparation for the NBA season ahead https://t.co/htRGbNjjyR
— Jaron B, LCSW (@Phroz3n_TriUmph) June 26, 2023
Not mad at this decision… get that boy eating protein and lifting weights. https://t.co/ysM1PGfQMi
— Cortez 🅿️ (@InthemindofCP) June 26, 2023
Smart move. https://t.co/UIBGahqCWg
— Paul Don't Lie (@PaulHeadleyNBA) June 26, 2023
https://twitter.com/HorseWith5Feet/status/1673326267393875968?s=20
Wembanyama is still planning to play in at least some of the Spurs’ summer league games in July.
[ESPN]
