Victor Wembanyama unveiled a pair of outdoor basketball courts in his hometown of Le Chesnay, France ahead of the San Antonio Spurs’ European swing.
Le Chesnay is city of roughly 30,000 people approximately 12 miles west of Paris. One court is for 5-on-5 play while the other is for 3-on-3 play.
“It was my dream also to have these kind of courts when I was living here,” Wembanyama said.
San Antonio will take on the Indiana Pacers twice during their stay in France, on Thursday and then again on Saturday.
Ahead of #NBAParis on Thursday & Saturday, Wemby’s hometown of Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt unveiled a court in his honor! ❤️🇫🇷 @wemby pic.twitter.com/MqkXYejYfn
— NBA (@NBA) January 21, 2025
Spurs Giving Back
While wholly Wembanyama’s idea and concept, the building of the court is under the Spurs’ ‘Play Paris’ initiative and cost close to $500,000, which was the total budget.
“The Spurs’ ‘Play Paris’ initiative isn’t just about building a court, it’s about creating a vibrant hub for the community that honors Victor’s journey and his commitment to giving back,” said RC Buford, CEO of Spurs Sports and Entertainment. “This renovated space will hopefully inspire the next generation and showcase the power of sports to bring people together.”
The center court design pays homage to both the Spurs’ logo and Le Chesnay’s clock tower, with Wembanyama keen to avoid having the courts be about him.
Construction was completed in just under a couple months and is considered a welcome addition by residents.
Spurs Hoping Change Of Scenery Helps
San Antonio has been on a slide of late, losing six of its last seven games and falling to 12th in the West.
Wembanyama has been leading the charge for the Spurs this season, averaging 24.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals and 4.0 blocks in 36 games.
He is the current favorite to win Defensive Player of the Year and is in the conversation for a starting spot at the All-Star Game.
Having turned 21 on Jan. 4, Wembanyama will be eager to put on a show in front of his home fans later this week.
