Victor Wembanyama Convinces Spurs To Create Dedicated Fan Section With Chants And Drums

Victor Wembanyama is already shaping the culture in San Antonio, and not just on the court. The Spurs’ 21-year-old phenom has convinced the franchise to introduce something never before seen in the NBA: a dedicated fan section modeled after the raucous ultras culture in European basketball and soccer.

“It’s been an idea. And now it’s a project. If this group of ultras reaches its full potential, I have no doubt that it’s going to help us win games in the future for sure."

"I mean, the 41 regular-season games at home this season, that’s 41 opportunities for them to push in the fourth quarter and give us that extra energy and that second wind that can give us the win.”

The Spurs announced this week that they’ll be holding official tryouts for what they’re calling the “Supporters Section,” set to occupy Section 114 at Frost Bank Center. 

Fans will need to commit to attending at least 75 percent of home games, participate in chants, rituals, and drumming, and bring relentless passion and noise for all 48 minutes. Membership will cost $999, but it comes with perks, including discounts and surprise meet-and-greet opportunities with Spurs figures.

Wembanyama, who grew up immersed in the fiery arenas of France and across Europe, knows firsthand how powerful such atmospheres can be. In countries like Serbia, Turkey, and Greece, fan groups are notorious for creating intimidating environments with synchronized chants, drums, banners, and even flares. 

While the NBA has never fully embraced that style, Wemby believes San Antonio is the right place to make it work.

The Spurs aren’t the first NBA team to dabble with the concept. The Los Angeles Clippers introduced “The Wall” last season at their new Intuit Dome, placing a section of fans directly behind one basket to disrupt opponents at the free throw line. 

But Wembanyama’s initiative feels more personal, it’s his project, born from his own experiences, and it shows how much influence he already has in shaping the Spurs’ identity.

For San Antonio, the potential benefits are obvious. The Spurs are building a contender around Wembanyama, who is already one of the best defenders and most impactful players in the league just three years into his career. 

With a young supporting cast featuring Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper, and De’Aaron Fox, the Spurs are positioning themselves for sustained success. A rowdy, relentless home atmosphere could tilt close games in their favor and restore the Frost Bank Center’s reputation as a fortress.

Wembanyama himself seems energized by the project. The Spurs’ star has shared pictures of his summer, which included training with Hakeem Olajuwon and Kevin Garnett, meditating with Shaolin monks in China, and meeting celebrities like Snoop Dogg and Daniel Radcliffe. Now, he’s turning his attention to uniting the Spurs community around him.

The tryouts for the Supporters Section are scheduled for Sunday, September 14, with registration beginning at 7 a.m. Wembanyama himself will be in attendance to help evaluate the energy and commitment of the fans hoping to join.

The message is clear: for the Spurs, this isn’t just about basketball. It’s about creating an environment where passion feeds performance. And if Wemby’s vision becomes reality, San Antonio could soon boast one of the loudest, most intimidating atmospheres in the league, one that reflects the fearless energy of the franchise’s new cornerstone.