Victor Wembanyama Played Chess vs 100 Opponents at Fan Event

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama had a hilarious encounter with fans at the Fanatics Fest while playing a game of Chess with them.

Victor Wembanyama Played Chess vs 100 Opponents at Fan Event

Victor Wembanyama (Image by FirstSportz)

Before the 2025-26 NBA season begins, players are first heading into the offseason, as they will spend some much-needed time on themselves and their families. Notably, San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama seems to be enjoying his break the most. Most recently, Wemby was in attendance at the Fanatics Fest event in New York.

Although his basketball skills have drawn admirers from all around the world, his hobbies outside of the court show a more complex side. Beyond his slam dunks and three-pointers, Wembanyama has a strong passion for chess, a game that calls for patience and smart thinking, two traits he exemplifies as an athlete.

This weekend is Fanatics Fest’s second annual fan sports event. Wemby played chess against 100 fans at Fanatics Fest on Saturday. Even though Wemby was competing against an overwhelming 100 spectators, he managed to win. For basketball aficionados as well as fans of all professions who respect his special fusion of talent and personality, his appearance was a highlight.

The Spurs star has also played in chess events in the past, showcasing his immense love for the indoor game. Aside from this, Wemby has spent his time in different parts of China during his break as well. Up until now, fans have only seen him in his few clips showing his physical and spiritual preparation in a Shaolin temple. His time there appears to be ended as he is at the Fanatics Fest now.

He also shared a few hilarious moments with the Los Angeles Lakers’ star man, LeBron James, at the Fest. The King had a hilarious statement regarding his retirement plans involving the Spurs phenom. Given that, it remains to be seen how Wemby performs in the NBA next season.

Victor Wembanyama opened up about his experience in China

Social media was flooded with pictures of 7’3″ Victor Wembanyama jogging with monks at a Shaolin Monastery in Dengfeng, China, while sporting robes and a shaven head. Nevertheless, the San Antonio Spurs player talked candidly about his experience visiting China’s Shaolin Temple.

It was a great experience. My goal going there was putting my body through things that it’s not used to doing and allowing my range of movement and strength. This was probably as very different as possible from what I’m used to doing.

Victor Wembanyama said
Victor Wembanyama 1
Victor Wembanyama (Credits: X)

Wembanyama spent ten days in a Shaolin Monastery in Dengfeng, which is regarded as a highly revered spiritual site in China. In February, he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, which abruptly ended his second NBA season. Before being sidelined for the rest of 2025–2026, he averaged 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game.

In addition, he studied martial arts, meditated frequently, and followed the monks’ diet, which consisted entirely of vegan food.

Victor Wembanyama had huge praise for Spurs legend Gregg Popovich

Victor Wembanyama has talked about his tight bond with Gregg Popovich, his former head coach. Given that he shares a mentor with Tim Duncan and David Robinson, that should be encouraging for the long run. The Spurs’ younger players are aware that Popovich had a significant influence on their careers and will remember that lesson.

First of all, the person. We were all really close. We all have really good relationships between the teammates and him. It’s always sad and shocking when something like this happens.

Victor Wembanyama said

Popovich has established himself as a legendary coach, yet he is still active in the NBA because of his front office position. The five-time champion achieved that by being successful and holding onto it for more than 20 years. Additionally, after guiding Team USA in the 2020 Olympics, he was awarded the gold medal.

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