Wembanyama’s grandmother died before Tuesday’s match, report says
LAS VEGAS – Victor Wembanyama played the NBA Cup final on Tuesday evening with a heavy heart.
When meeting with reporters after the match, Wembanyama was emotional before apologizing and saying he “lost someone today.”
Victor Wembanyama lost his grandmother and then played one of the biggest games of his NBA career just hours later. He is also a 21 year old human being. I know he talks trash in a sporting setting. For those who make fun of this situation, I hope you get better one day. pic.twitter.com/XodnhEEUEY
–Josh Paredes (@Josh810) December 17, 2025
He fought back tears and answered only two questions before leaving the press conference with a member of the Spurs staff.
A Spurs official confirmed to KSAT that Wembanyama learned his grandmother had died before Tuesday’s game. He still played and scored 18 points, grabbed six rebounds and blocked two shots off the bench in San Antonio’s 123-114 loss to the New York Knicks.
Despite the personal defeat, Wembanyama showed strength on the pitch, demonstrating why he is a key player for Spurs.
San Antonio hosts the Washington Wizards on Thursday, then plays the Atlanta Hawks on Friday.
It is unclear whether the 21-year-old will be available for these matches.
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