Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama, despite being separated by 18 years in age and playing very different roles on the basketball court, developed a strong bond last season while with the San Antonio Spurs. Both athletes are known for their intense competitiveness and high personal standards, which was notably evident during an incident in the Skills Challenge where they were disqualified for cheating. Although they treated the moment lightly at the time, it appeared the experience was taken seriously by both.
With Paul becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer and the Spurs bringing in new backcourt talents like De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper, Paul’s future with the team looks uncertain. Nonetheless, he remains eager to collaborate with Wembanyama once more, just not as part of the Spurs lineup.
Chris Paul’s Role in The Soccer Tournament and Interest in Wembanyama
Paul is a part-owner of The Soccer Tournament, a high-stakes soccer event offering a $1 million prize in a winner-take-all format. This competition includes both professional soccer players and celebrities, such as Pat McAfee, Chad Ochocinco Johnson, and Steve Nash. Wembanyama, who grew up in France where soccer is immensely popular, possesses natural skill on the field, making him an ideal candidate for Paul’s event.
Paul expressed his enthusiasm about involving Wembanyama in the tournament, hoping to add more star power to the event. He recalled moments from the basketball season when Wembanyama and teammates would casually play soccer on the court during warmups. Paul commented,
“I would love to get Wemby out there at some point,”
and added,
“This past season, as teammates during warmups, we get ready for the game, and I might be dribbling across the court, and then here comes a ball rolling across the court because Vic and a couple of my teammates will be playing soccer on the court before the game. This past season, I probably had the teammates, probably the biggest soccer fans on my team.”
—Chris Paul, NBA Player and Tournament Co-Owner
Potential Formation of a Team Spurs in the Soccer Tournament
The idea of a “Team Spurs” participating in The Soccer Tournament could attract significant attention, building on the event’s growth since its 2023 inception. As one of the primary organizers and backers, Paul has shown some hesitation about fully committing as a player, saying,
“Maybe I enter on one of these teams, one of these years, and then they just put me in for PKs.”
—Chris Paul, NBA Player and Tournament Co-Owner
Fans who admired the way Paul found Wembanyama down low during basketball games might be intrigued to see how their partnership translates on the soccer pitch. Standing at 7-foot-4, Wembanyama could be a valuable target for headers, even as Paul adjusts to the nuances of soccer. This pairing presents the promise of a unique and entertaining collaboration outside their usual basketball environment.
Looking Ahead: Wembanyama and Paul’s Continuing Collaboration Beyond the Spurs
While the Spurs are moving forward with new talent, Chris Paul’s plans to involve Victor Wembanyama in The Soccer Tournament signal a fresh avenue for the two athletes to showcase their teamwork. This event highlights a growing trend of athletes crossing into other sports and entertainment fields, expanding their influence beyond the court. The potential presence of both Paul and Wembanyama in this high-profile soccer competition could increase fan interest and add a new dimension to their already impressive athletic careers.