Wembanyama rejects gambling deals and embraces barefoot habits in 60 Minutes sit-down
The Spurs star discussed his specific criteria for sponsorships, the physical benefits of minimal footwear, and the lessons he derived from his team's recent Finals run.
By Nour Haddad ·
Star athletes rarely grant extended, on-the-record interviews that allow for an unfiltered look at their professional and personal lives. Victor Wembanyama sat down with CBS News' 60 Minutes on Sunday to discuss his career trajectory, his physical routines, and the public perception that has surrounded him since his rookie year.
The San Antonio Spurs forward reached his first NBA Finals last season, where his team fell to the New York Knicks. That postseason transformed his public image, turning him from a breakout star into a villain for fans supporting New York's bid to end a 53-year championship drought. Wembanyama addressed how that narrative shaped his mindset and his approach to the game in the months following the series.
In the interview, Wembanyama explained that he intentionally avoids aligning himself with brands that promote unhealthy habits or vices. He stated that he would not work with a soda company because he does not want to promote products he does not consume. He also expressed a preference for promoting healthy habits over gambling or alcohol, noting that his choice is still evolving as he grows as a person.
Wembanyama detailed his preference for walking barefoot or wearing minimalistic shoes whenever possible. He cited the frequent foot problems that plague big men in the NBA as a primary reason for this routine. He argued that strong foot posture supports the health of knees, hips, and backs. A rookie in his practice asked him how he could play without shoes, a reaction that Wembanyama found amusing but common.
The player also reflected on the feedback he received from his late mentor and former coach, Gregg Popovich. Wembanyama recalled Popovich's advice during film sessions, specifically the notion that teams are rarely as good after a win or as bad after a loss as they perceive themselves to be. He identified humility as the greatest lesson he learned from the legendary coach before his retirement following a stroke.
Wembanyama acknowledged that his life in the United States differs from that of the average American citizen. He described his existence as that of a wealthy athlete with many needs taken care of for him. He noted that while he feels less judged for his ambition in the U.S., he finds social interactions here to be more shallow compared to France.
The Spurs currently hold a four-game winning streak after starting the season with two losses. They are considered the championship favorite following a series of injuries to their rivals, the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team is attempting to apply the lessons from their previous Finals run while maintaining their current form.
Wembanyama has not missed a game this season, having maintained awards eligibility in both his first and third years in the league. His longest previous absence was due to a blood clot in his shoulder, a condition that has not recurred in the current campaign.
