/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2026/06/04/image-43bbc1c7-0e7e-4555-9ab3-5f7592f1ab51-85-2560-1440.jpeg)
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama stated he will never accept a partnership with sports betting operators, calling it “very triste” to see fellow athletes promote gambling. Speaking after a preseason practice, the 22-year-old French center drew a firm line against the increasingly lucrative sector as major NBA stars continue aligning with betting and prediction platforms.
Wembanyama Rejects Sports Betting Deals
The 22-year-old French center addressed reporters following a preseason training session, delivering an unambiguous rejection when asked if he would take a financial stake in sports gambling platforms. “Je ne ferai jamais ça. Honnêtement, je trouve très triste de voir certains joueurs en faire la promotion. Chacun fait ce qu’il veut, mais ce sera sans moi.”
Wembanyama’s comments arrive amid a wave of high-profile partnerships across the league. LeBron James recently signed with the news prediction site Polymarket after previously serving as an online sportsbook ambassador for DraftKings. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant holds an endorsement deal with FanDuel, and Giannis Antetokounmpo serves as an investor and marketing partner for Kalshi.
Wembanyama Prioritizes Values over Financial Gain
NBA regulations permit teams and the league to partner with gaming operators and prediction markets, though current rules prohibit individual players from directly promoting gambling products to fans. Wembanyama, who secured a five-year contract extension worth $252 million after leading the Spurs to the NBA Finals in just his third professional season, noted that financial gain no longer dictates his commercial choices.
Alongside his athletic earnings, American media reports indicate Wembanyama has expanded his agreement with Nike to include a signature shoe line, in addition to serving as a brand ambassador for luxury house Louis Vuitton. “Par le passé, l’aspect financier entrait en ligne de compte,” Wembanyama said. “Ce n’est plus le cas (…) Aujourd’hui, je veux promouvoir des choses qui ont un impact positif, une bonne influence, et avec lesquelles je peux partager des messages et des valeurs.”
Focus on Positive Influence
Wembanyama emphasized that athletes carry a responsibility beyond accumulating wealth. “Évidemment, nous gagnons des millions et des millions. Ce n’est pas notre plus grande force,” he stated. “Notre plus grande force, c’est d’inspirer. Je veux inspirer de manière positive.”
What Victor Wembanyama Says About Sports Betting?
What did Victor Wembanyama say about sports betting?
Wembanyama stated he would never accept a partnership with sports betting companies, adding that he finds it very sad when players promote gambling.
Which other NBA stars have betting or prediction market partnerships?
LeBron James has worked with DraftKings and Polymarket, Kevin Durant serves as a FanDuel ambassador, and Giannis Antetokounmpo is an investor and partner with Kalshi.
What are the NBA rules regarding player gambling promotions?
While the league permits team and corporate partnerships with gaming operators, players are strictly prohibited from promoting gambling products directly to the public.
What are Wembanyama’s current major brand partnerships?
Beyond his team contract, Wembanyama holds a signature shoe deal with Nike and serves as an ambassador for luxury brand Louis Vuitton.
