Paris 2024: French Basketball Star Victor Wembanyama Aims to Fulfill Olympic Dream

As the top choice in the previous NBA draft, the star player for the San Antonio Spurs, described his first international competition as “like any other sporting experience but with even more demands.”

“The enthusiasm is palpable. In a video conference with reporters from the French team’s training facility in Wattignies, where it will remain for the group stage in Lille, Wembanyama said, “It’s hard to believe it’s really the Olympics.”

“Compared to prior Olympics I’ve watched, this one is unique. It’s still a fantasy, and I don’t think it will really hit home until I hear the national song, Marseillaise,” he remarked.

France, who competed in the Tokyo Olympics and won silver three years ago, takes against Brazil in their opening match on Saturday.

Wembanyama stated that despite the team’s four straight losses—to Germany, Serbia, Canada, and Australia—the group’s confidence has not been damaged.

“It’s preferable to place oneself in a challenging situation now so you can prepare for it later. After winning NBA Rookie of the Year, the 20-year-old stated, “I think we’re on the right track.”

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In his rookie campaign, the enormous 2.24 m (7ft 4in) center averaged 21.4 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. He should also add a new perspective to a French team that lost to the United States in the Tokyo Games final due to Covid-related delays.

Wembanyama remarked, “The players’ and staff’s energy is just incredible.” “I’ve never seen such a strong drive to succeed in other teams.

“Confidence remains quite high. We are aware that there will be challenges along the way; the journey won’t always be easy,” he said.