• He also created the Jackals, the first group of ultras in the NBA, to energize the atmosphere and intimidate the opponent.
• Clapping, popularized by Iceland at Euro 2016, is a tradition contested by Turkey and Greece.
Victor Wembanyama imported a very European tradition onto the Spurs floor. The 21-year-old French basketball player wanted to celebrate the victory of the San Antonio Spurs against the Oklahoma City Thunder (130-110) with a clapping. As you can see in the video at the top of the article, he set the rhythm by tapping a drum after having previously spoken.
“Thank you for your support, it’s good to be back home, in front of all these amazing fans. Now, I would like, with my teammates, to introduce you to a new tradition that we have implemented with the Jackals [un groupe d’ultras, ndlr]. So, please, everyone: raise your arms in the air, spread your arms wide, and do like the Jackals,” he explained.
The Jackals are the first group ” ultras » of the NBA and were created a few months ago by Victor Wembanyama, as reported The Team. They are responsible for setting the mood and intimidating the opponent. Another well-known tradition in Europe that the pivot wanted to bring back with him.
“The aim of the Jackals is to create an atmosphere similar to European football. Featuring chants, songs and customs that will enhance the fan experience at Frost Bank Center, potentially creating something revolutionary for the Spurs” could we read in a post on social networks when the creation of the group was announced.
Clapping dates from the 2000s and its origin is disputed by Turkey and Greece, as explained So Foot. It was popularized by Iceland during the 2016 Euro and has since been widely used, including in France during the Olympic Games.
