Victor Wembanyama makes decision on FIBA World Cup

Victor Wembanyama has changed his mind about representing France in the FIBA World Cup this summer, writes Brian Windhorst of ESPN. The No. 1 pick in this year’s draft made the announcement in an interview with the French newspaper L’Equipe, saying he plans to focus on getting ready for his rookie season with the Spurs.

“It would not be realistic in terms of development and not prudent in terms of health,” Wembanyama said. “I hope people will understand. It’s frustrating for me, too. The France team is still central for me. I want to win as many titles as possible with the team. But I think it’s a necessary sacrifice.”

Wembanyama indicated that the World Cup would have been too much to add to his schedule after leading his Metropolitans 92 team to the French League finals, a series that didn’t end until June 15. He traveled to New York for last week’s draft, then boarded a plane to San Antonio, where he was introduced at a press conference Saturday afternoon.

Wembanyama intends to play for France in the 2024 Olympics, which means a full summer of basketball after his rookie season concludes. After 62 games in the French League and possibly 82 in the NBA or more if the Spurs reach the postseason, the 7’4″ power forward determined that he might be subjecting himself to approximately 170 games within 24 months if he participates in the World Cup as well.

Wembanyama still plans to be active for at least some of San Antonio’s Summer League games. The Spurs will take part in the California Classic beginning next Monday before moving on to the Las Vegas league. He said the team would have supported his decision whether he played in the World Cup or not, adding that he chose to sit out after talking to his personal medical staff.

France won the silver medal in the most recent Olympics and was considered among the favorites at the World Cup. The tournament will take place from Aug. 25 to Sept. 10 in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia.