Victor Wembanyama has never been one to shy away from a microphone. Whether it's breaking down a defensive switch or speaking on issues far bigger than basketball, the 22-year-old Spurs center continues to show maturity beyond his years-and on Tuesday afternoon, he reminded us again why he's quickly becoming one of the most compelling voices in the NBA.
Following a Spurs practice, Wembanyama addressed the media and was asked about the recent police shooting of two civilians in Minneapolis. His response wasn’t rehearsed, nor was it filtered through a PR lens. It was raw, thoughtful, and deeply human.
“PR has tried,” Wembanyama said, pausing before continuing. “But I'm not going to sit here and give some politically correct [answer].
Every day I see the news and I'm horrified. I think it's crazy that some people might make it seem like, or make it sound like, it's acceptable-like the murder of civilians is acceptable.
I read the news and sometimes I'm asking very deep questions about my own life.”
It was a moment that echoed the tone set by former Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, who for years used his platform to speak out on social justice issues. With Popovich stepping away from the game last season due to health concerns, the team-and perhaps the league-has been looking for the next voice to carry that torch. Wembanyama may be stepping into that role, not because he seeks it, but because he feels compelled to speak.
He was careful not to go too far, acknowledging the weight of his words and the potential fallout.
Victor Wembanyama’s full comments today on the shooting of another civilian by federal agents in Minneapolis:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) January 27, 2026
“PR has tried, but I'm not going to sit here and give some politcally correct [answer]. Every day I see the news and I'm horrified. I think it's crazy that some people… pic.twitter.com/YpkUbP1E6D
“I'm conscious also saying everything that's on my mind will have a cost that's too great for me right now, so I'd rather not get into too many details,” he said.
That line alone speaks volumes. Wembanyama isn’t just aware of the issues-he’s aware of the stakes.
As a foreign-born player, as someone still building his brand and navigating the early years of his NBA career, he knows the risks of being outspoken. Yet he still chose to speak.
When asked directly if his concerns stem from being a foreigner living in the United States, he didn’t hesitate.
“It’s terrible. I know I’m a foreigner, but I live in this country and I am concerned.”
Alex Pretti was murdered.
— Tyrese Haliburton (@Hali) January 25, 2026
It’s a powerful statement from a young star who’s still only in his third NBA season. And while he’s made headlines for his play on the court-where he continues to dazzle despite limited minutes-this moment was about more than basketball.
Through 32 games this season, Wembanyama has been managing his workload carefully, averaging just 28.9 minutes per game due to ongoing injury management. But even with nearly five fewer minutes per game than last year, his production has remained remarkably consistent. He’s not just holding steady-he’s evolving.
And so are the Spurs. At 31-15, they’re tied with the Denver Nuggets for the second seed in the Western Conference, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder, who sit atop the standings at 37-10. It’s a testament to the team’s depth, discipline, and the steady rise of their young centerpiece.
Around the league, a few players have begun to speak out about the incident in Minneapolis. Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers and Guerschon Yabusele of the Knicks have made public comments, but the broader response has been relatively muted. That makes Wembanyama’s words all the more significant.
I can't stop thinking about the tragic events unfolding in Minnesota, and even though I'm French, I can't remain silent. What's happening is beyond comprehension. We're talking about murders here, these are serious matters. The situation must change, the government must stop…
— Guerschon Yabusele (@yabusele28) January 26, 2026
He’s not just one of the league’s brightest young stars-he’s also becoming one of its most thoughtful. And in a league that has long prided itself on player empowerment and social awareness, Wembanyama’s voice feels both timely and necessary.
There’s no question he has more to say. But for now, even in measured tones, his message resonates.