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Victor Wembanyama said no to gambling money. In today’s NBA, that feels radical | Owen Lewis

As LeBron James and other NBA stars wholeheartedly embrace the murk of betting and prediction markets, the San Antonio Spurs’ 22-year-old cornerstone has drawn a refreshing lineIf the song from LeBron James’s agonizing Polymarket ad is as stuck in your…

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 12:15 PM
Victor Wembanyama said no to gambling money. In today’s NBA, that feels radical | Owen Lewis
Key Things to Know
  • Victor Wembanyama stated he will never partner with sports betting firms, calling player promotions of gambling sad.
  • The Guardian's Owen Lewis praises Wembanyama's stance as a rare and principled act in modern basketball.
  • Prominent stars including LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Giannis Antetokounmpo have active ties to betting platforms.
The Story in 60 Seconds

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama stated during practice that he will never partner with a sports betting firm. The 22-year-old called it sad to see players promote gambling, contrasting his stance with peers like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who have partnered with betting and prediction platforms.

The Guardian's Owen Lewis argues that Wembanyama's refusal of gambling endorsements represents a refreshing, principled stand against predatory commercial interests. Lewis notes that taking this position helps restore Wembanyama's popularity following on-court struggles during the previous season's NBA Finals.

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