Victor Wembanyama takes not-so-subtle shot at LeBron James and other NBA stars for compromising their morals
Wemby continues to endear himself to basketball fans from every walk of life.
Three years into his NBA career, Victor Wembanyama has been every bit as good as advertised. “Wemby” was a teenage prodigy, going viral on social media due to his incredible highlights at such a young age, while towering over everyone with his long and lanky frame.
Already a two-time All-Star and having led the San Antonio Spurs to the NBA Finals last season, there appears to be no ceiling for Wembanyama’s greatness. But aside from his otherworldly talent, it’s been his off-court persona that has truly endeared him to fans.
Victor Wembanyama says he would never work with a sports gambling company
From speaking out on injustices in the world to spending zen time with monks, Wembanyama has turned into one of the most interesting professional athletes in the world. He’s at inner peace with who he has become, and he’s unwilling to sell his soul for profit .
So it was no surprise to hear Wembanyama completely shut down the idea of potentially partnering with a sports gambling company .
Absolutely not, I will never do that. Honestly, I think it’s very sad to see some players promote it, in my opinion. Everybody does whatever they want, but without me… I refused plenty, much more money than I’ve made, for things that were not to my values. Now I want to promote things that have a good impact, have a good influence in the world… One thing that’s very important for me: Our biggest strength is not our [money] - obviously we earn millions and millions - it’s not our biggest strength. Our biggest strength is inspiring, and we can inspire in a good or bad way. I want to inspire in a good way, that’s the strongest thing I can do.
Wembanyama’s answer is notable because it comes with a not-so-subtle shot at LeBron James . James had a longstanding partnership with DraftKings , before announcing recently that he’s now an ambassador Polymarket . James’ decision didn’t sit well with fans, and it seems like it didn’t sit well with Wembanyama either.
As Wemby mentions, there are plenty of other professional athletes who have done the same as James. But The King has a very wide reach, and Wembanyama believes that should be used for better causes.
