The sequence went around the world: at the end of the France – United States final of the last Olympic Games (87-98), Victor Wembanyama couldn’t contain his emotions. Moved to tears, the new French basketball star was comforted by his teammates before falling into his mother’s arms. Hotly, the rookie of the year in the NBA described this defeat against Team USA as a « little heartbreak » and called for « trust the new generation »already taking place in four years, in Los Angeles.
Two months later, the disappointment was still as strong. « I had to scream, cry, express my emotions », he rewinded during the San Antonio Spurs “media day” on Monday, in which Basket USA participated, affirming that this Olympic fortnight was “probably the most intense sporting experience of [sa] vie ». « The end was a kind of relief, but there were too many emotions for me to contain. We were focused: we built something with this team. I have stored up a lot of stuff that will serve me for the rest of my life. »
Gregg Popovich: “He was a bit like David Robinson in his time »
Under the eyes of Gregg Popovich and the Texan delegation led by RC Buford, Victor Wembanyama notably helped France qualify for the final before once again impressing America with an accomplished match (26 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists in 30 minutes) against Kevin Durant and his gang.
« He was a bit like David Robinson in his time, we didn’t realize he was scoring so many points »believes coach Pop’, also a former United States coach. « Victor was exceptional (during these Olympics): he continued to improve throughout the tournament and ended up being great. Playing in FIBA tournaments (with national teams) is always beneficial for all players, without exception. »
For Devin Vassell, Victor Wembanyama “did not back down from anyone”
Jostled by the opposing defenses, the former interior of the Metropolitans 92 managed to raise the cursor at the best of times for the Blues. “As in his debut in the NBA or even in the Betclic Élite playoffs, he was faced with a defense very focused on him, very rough, very physical. This is what, for the moment, may pose problems for him, particularly in international basketball. Because there is less space and also because he is less protected by the referees »recalled Vincent Collet, the now ex-French coach, in our columns at the beginning of September, estimating that « his ability to adapt is one of his great qualities”.
From San Antonio, where the dream of a return to the playoffs is taking shape, his performances have been closely scrutinized. Devin Vassell, unavailable for the start of the season and Wemby’s No. 1 lieutenant last year, was once again impressed by his teammate’s prowess. “Some of his actions are still too crazy »he said, estimating that Victor Wembanyama is “almost the voice of this team (from France), he carried it “. “In front of LeBron (James) or all the other great players on Team USA, he didn’t back down from anyone.”
A new generation also among the Blues
For the Blues, and while waiting for a possible reunion with Vincent Collet at Spurs, Victor Wembanyama expressed his satisfaction at seeing Frédéric Fauthoux, promoted to coach of the France team. The two men have known each other for a long time and rubbed shoulders at ASVEL in 2021/22.
“I am quite proud (of his appointment) because I spent time with him at ASVEL”the native of Chesnay (Yvelines) told us. “He’s someone I really like, a real leader of men. I am happy to see a new generation arriving in the French team, both among the players and the coaches. I hope we have the opportunity to grow together. »
Before trying to repeat the same performance in Los Angeles in 2028 as at the Paris Olympic Games, Victor Wembanyama and Frédéric Fauthoux will try to offer a second European champion title to France. See you at the end of summer 2025 (August 27 to September 14, in Latvia, Cyprus, Finland and Poland).
From our correspondent in San Antonio (United States).
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