‘If I could, I’d sign everyone’s shirts’, Wembanyama moved by displays of affection from fans

2023-05-07 22:39:41

It is an understatement to say that Victor Wembanyama vibrated, this Sunday, during the victory of his Mets 92 from Boulogne-Levallois against Bourg-en-Bresse (93-82). Author of a full game (25 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists), the 19-year-old interior, who will play next season in the NBA, took the opportunity to receive all the love from the French public, the 15,000 people present in an Accor Arena all committed to his cause. He confided his emotions in a press conference.

Can you tell us about this atmosphere in front of 15,000 people. Does this get you used to your next day in the NBA?

VICTOR WEMBANYAMA. Yes, but it has even more value because it’s in France. This is the first time that I felt so many emotions among the fans. At the end, when I go to see them, it was still moving.

Are you aware that your fans are as much children as adults?

Yes, I am aware of that. I see dads or moms who want a photo. It’s funny. It’s fun.

Are emotions increased tenfold in such a context?

Totally. The more the days pass, the closer the important deadlines get. I try to make the most of it. If I could I would sign jerseys and take a picture with everyone (laughs). But there are obligations.

You wrote on your social networks: “In ten days (May 16), I will know my future team in the NBA”. That’s it, it’s getting closer…

I got up one morning. Walking to training, I tell myself it’s already May 6th. Bug, in ten days, I will have a revelation on the rest of my career. I said to myself, day by day it happens. These are special emotions. Excitement but already what!

What does this lottery system inspire in you, which will determine the identity of your future team?

It is true that it is special. I realize that when I explain it to non-basketballers. But it’s always been that way. If a player is destined to become a great player, no matter where he falls, it’s always the right place. I don’t care where I’m going to land. This will be the right destination.

Playing in front of 15,000 people, does that pull you up?

Of course, it’s more exhilarating in front of 15,000 than 1,500. But I’m sure we’re all professionals. None of us are stressed. Excited, maybe. But there is no apprehension. Playing in front of a very hostile or very friendly audience brings something.

Is it easy to separate things between your future in the NBA and the end of the season with Boulogne-Levallois?

I don’t know if it’s easy. But it’s not difficult. The most important thing is to choose your schedule. When it’s training, it’s the coach, the team, the tactics. When I have time, I can think about extra-basketball. The most important thing is the team.