Spurs star Wembanyama sets new rules for NBA superstars

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama told CBS News on Sunday that he will not take money from gambling companies. The Frenchman explained that he wants to promote healthy habits and products that improve society. He said he avoids soda brands because he does not want to push unhealthy items on fans. Wembanyama noted that star players have the power to shape their public image beyond the court. He can choose to be an influencer, a philanthropist, or a promoter of vices. He is choosing health.

The 2026-27 NBA season is in its early stages. Wembanyama sat down for a long-form interview with the show "60 Minutes." He discussed his first few years in the United States and his journey to the NBA Finals. The Spurs lost to the New York Knicks in that series. Wembanyama became a target for fans who wanted the Knicks to end their long championship drought. He admitted that the criticism showed him his limits. He said players do not need to beat opponents down physically if they want to win. He committed a flagrant foul on Jalen Brunson in Game 5. The Knicks won that game and the series. The NBA did not review the foul because the series ended. Wembanyama was one point away from a suspension for a hypothetical Game 6. He wants to avoid that situation in the future.

Wembanyama has a unique approach to physical maintenance. He often walks barefoot and wears minimalistic shoes. He said big men historically have foot problems. He believes strong feet lead to better posture for the knees, hips, and back. A rookie saw him arrive at practice without shoes and expressed surprise. Wembanyama has maintained awards eligibility in his first and third NBA seasons. His longest absence resulted from a blood clot in his shoulder. He has not missed a game this year.

Living in the United States feels different from life in France. Wembanyama has lived in the U.S. for more than three years. He said his life is not that of a regular American. It is the life of a wealthy athlete. He said the U.S. is the best country to be an athlete in. He does not feel judged for being ambitious. However, he said social interactions feel shallower than in other countries. They are not as in-depth as in France.

Wembanyama started his career under head coach Gregg Popovich. Popovich retired after suffering a stroke. Wembanyama said the greatest lesson he learned was about humility. Popovich often told players during film sessions that they are rarely as good as they think after a win. He also said they are rarely as bad as they think after a loss. Wembanyama wants to hold onto that perspective this season. The Spurs are currently the championship favorite. They won four straight games after losing their first two. The team blew double-digit leads in all four losses to the Knicks in the Finals. They are attempting to fix those deficiencies while keeping their confidence.

The Spurs reached the Finals last season well ahead of schedule. They are now focused on the regular season. Wembanyama is on pace to become the most prominent foreign player in NBA history. He is expected to lead the league after current stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry retire. He is already influencing how other stars conduct themselves. His choice of sponsors and his physical routines are setting a new standard for the next generation of players.