Victor Wembanyama Speaks Out Against LeBron, Giannis' Ties With Sports Betting Companies

Earlier in September, LeBron James faced backlash after announcing his affiliation with the sports betting company Polymarket. The move was frowned upon, especially considering that LeBron is not only the biggest name in the NBA but is also still an active player. Sports betting has arguably undermined the integrity of sports, especially given the nature of game-fixing.

Before James' Polymarket deal, fellow NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo also found himself making ties with sports betting company Kalshi. In February, Antetokounmpo became the first active NBA player to become a shareholder in the company. San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama recently shared his thoughts on big names like LeBron and Giannis indulging in such platforms.

"Absolutely not. I will never (join sports betting companies)," Wembanyama said in an interview with NBA insider Jared Weiss. "Honestly, I think it’s very sad to see some players promote it."

Wembanyama then shared which types of brands or platforms he'd rather represent than sports betting companies.

"In the past, there was a division of money. Not anymore... Now, I want to promote things that have a good impact, have a good influence... One thing that's very important for me, the biggest strength, is inspiring. That's the strongest thing that I can do."

While it's good to see Wembanyama have a mature point of view in life at the young age of 22 years old, he definitely needs to back it up on the hardwood. There's no denying that his 2026 NBA Finals run was nothing short of inspirational. However, the way Wemby acted in defeat was frowned upon.

Wemby and the rest of the Spurs notoriously walked off the hardwood without shaking hands with the New York Knicks after losing Game 5. The towering Frenchman then said, "See you never", during the postgame press conference, proving that he still has a long way to go in terms of mental growth.

Victor Wembanyama Feels More Confident During 2026 NBA Training Camp

The San Antonio Spurs ended up in second place last season after losing to the New York Knicks in the 2026 NBA Finals. While it's always heartbreaking to lose in the Finals, there's no denying the Spurs have gained significant experience. What's impressive is how the young core led by Victor Wembanyama made it to the league's grandest stage.

Given their current circumstances, Wembanyama appears to be more confident this summer as NBA training camp commences. In a recent interview with Wemby after one of their practices, he shared how the experience they've gained last season has made training sessions easier this time around.

"It feels like we know each other so much better now," Wembanyama told NBA insider Hector Ledesma. "It's like we know what works and what doesn't work. We don't take as much time as we used to in training and missing things... Mistakes, we get rid of them much quicker. I guess you can just call it experience."

Wemby's confidence should reassure Spurs fans heading into the 2026-27 season. After a meaningful run last season, Wemby and the Spurs will be looking to go for the gold again as they attempt to make another deep playoff run.