Los Angeles (United States) (AFP) - French giant Victor Wimpanyama confirmed on Thursday that he will not join the constellation of stars who place their image on the service of sports betting sites, considering that “it is very sad that some players are promoting this matter.”
Published on: 02/10/2026 - 08:40
"Absolutely not," the San Antonio Spurs star answered reporters after pre-season training, when asked if he would accept a share of the growing attack in the sports betting sector.
“I would never do that,” he added.
He continued: "Frankly, I find it very sad to see some players promoting this matter. Everyone is free to do what they want, but I will not do that."
Wimbanyama's statements come a week after LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and former ambassador for the electronic sports betting company DraftKings, signed an agreement with the PolyMarket platform to predict events.
Star Kevin Durant serves as an ambassador for FanDuel, while Greek Giannis Antetokounmpo is a shareholder and marketing partner in Calcci, two other betting and prediction platforms.
League regulations allow partnerships with betting companies and prediction platforms, but prohibit players from promoting gambling in front of league fans.
Wembanyama led the Spurs to the league final in only his third season, before extending his contract for five years for 252 million US dollars.
According to American media, the 22-year-old player also concluded an agreement with the sports equipment company Nike to expand his partnership with it, provided that the agreement includes a special shoe bearing his name. He is also an ambassador for the luxury brand Louis Vuitton.
Wembe confirmed that he now chooses his business partnerships with the aim of “inspiring” others.
He said: “In the past, the financial aspect was taken into account. This is no longer the case (...) Today, I want to promote things that have a positive impact, a good impact, and through which I can share messages and values.”
He added, "Obviously we make millions and millions of dollars. That's not our biggest strength. Our biggest strength is inspiration. I want to inspire in a positive way."
Bb - colostrum/mast/let
© 2026 AFP
The content you want to browse is no longer in service or is currently unavailable.
