Injury-Riddled Victor Wembanyama Puts Olympics Dream in Jeopardy to Honor Spurs “Responsibility”

San Antonio Spurs player, Victor Wembanyama has met many of the expectations set upon him and shined during his rookie season. During his 57 games in the league, he has built upon an offensive that has contributed to many of his team’s wins. Given his performance, many fans have considered the French player to be a viable candidate for the 2024 Olympic games. Before he could be chosen for the same, however, Wembanyama had to make it through the rest of the season while dealing with an ankle injury.

In the aftermath of the latest Warriors-Spurs faceoff, Wembanyama was asked by a journalist just how much he “wants to continue playing until the end of the season, even as the Olympics loom”. Wemby, paying attention to what was happening now, replied, “It’s no question for me. How much do I want it? As much as I wanted it all season. I have this responsibility towards my team.”

During the Spurs’ recent loss against the Rockets, Wembanyama developed an ankle injury in the middle of the first half. While he managed to make a return during the second half, it may not have been the best long-term decision. His condition deteriorated, and he was forced to opt out of the next two games. His situation may have improved now, but no one can make assumption about what might happen in the long run. This is probably the reason why fans are considering the 20-year-old to conserve himself so that he might have the chance to participate at the international level.

Victor Wembanyama will play against the US during the 2024 Olympic games

While one can’t claim for certain, there is a high chance that Victor Wembanyama can finish his rookie season with the Spurs and still manage to maintain his ankle’s condition by the end of it. Even if everything went well, the rising prodigy has made it clear that he will not be representing the United States during one of 2024’s most highly anticipated events.

Back in September 2023, before the commencement of the regular season, Wemby expressed his wish to represent France during the Olympic games. Given that a major chunk of his life has been spent in Le Chesnay, France till now, the player would seem to like nothing more than to display his allegiance to his roots.

“Performing well at the Olympics would be a great story,” said Wembanyama during an interview with French newspaper L’equipe. “I’ll be present at the Olympics, and there’s no other goal than gold.”

Wemby did not make himself available to represent either the US or France during the recent FIBA World Cup. Therefore, making an appearance at the Olympics would be a top priority for him.

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