‘It’s sad to see players promoting it’: Wembanyama says he will never support gambling companies | Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama has ruled out supporting a sports betting company, saying he is saddened to see other NBA players lending their names to gambling platforms.

The San Antonio Spurs star was unequivocal when asked after Thursday’s training camp if he would consider partnering with a sportsbook.

“Absolutely not,” Wembanyama said. “I will never do that. Honestly, I find it very sad to see some players promoting it. Everyone does what they want, but without me.”

Wembanyama said his approach to sponsorship has evolved during his rise to one of basketball’s biggest stars. Although money once factored into his thinking, he said he came to prioritize whether potential partnerships aligned with his personal values.

“In the past there was a financial dimension,” he said. “No more.”

Wembanyama added that he rejected offers worth far more than the sponsorship deals he accepted because he did not feel comfortable with what he would be promoting.

“Obviously, we make millions and millions. That’s not our greatest strength. Our greatest strength is inspiration. I want to inspire in a good way. That’s the strongest thing I can do.”

Wembanyama’s position contrasts with that of several of the NBA’s most high-profile stars, who have established relationships with sports betting or prediction market companies.

LeBron James announced a partnership with Polymarket in September after working with DraftKings. Kevin Durant has an endorsement deal with FanDuel and is an investor in the Kalshi Prediction Market, while Giannis Antetokounmpo announced earlier this year that he had become a Kalshi shareholder. Nikola Jokić, three-time NBA MVP, has been Superbet’s ambassador in Serbia since 2023.

NBA players are allowed to support sports betting companies under the league’s collective bargaining agreement, subject to restrictions. They cannot promote betting in NBA-related markets, but can enter into broader sponsorship deals and hold limited investments in gambling companies.

The French center is entering his fourth NBA season after helping San Antonio reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014. He was unanimously voted Defensive Player of the Year last season after leading the league in blocked shots for a third straight year.

Wembanyama, who also finished third in MVP voting, made clear Thursday that his growing prominence won’t change where he draws the line on support.

“I want to promote things that have a good impact, a good influence with whom I can share messages and values,” he said.