Victor Wembanyama to skip playing for France in FIBA World Cup

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Victor Wembanyama has some bad news for France.

The No. 1 draft pick told L’Equipe newspaper he won't play with his national basketball team at this year's World Cup in order to protect his still developing body, and will instead take that time to continue preparing for his rookie season with the San Antonio Spurs.

Wembanyama said it was a difficult decision to make, adding that it is irrevocable.

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Victor Wembanyama poses for a photo with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected first overall by the San Antonio Spurs during the NBA basketball draft, Thursday, June 22, 2023, in New York. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

"I’ve decided to dedicate this summer to preparing my body for the many events awaiting it in the coming years," he said. "This meant skipping the World Cup. It was a difficult decision, and one that required the advice of many people. But I sincerely believe it’s the best one for the French team and myself."

The top pick in this year’s NBA draft had previously said he wanted to play in the tournament, which runs from Aug. 25 through Sept. 10 and will have France among the medal favorites. But both he and the Spurs suggested in recent days that his participation was no longer certain.

Wembanyama said he consulted with close friends and his medical team. He told the France coach and other players from the team about his decision over the weekend, L'Equipe reported on Monday.

Wembanyama said he was not pressured by the Spurs in any way.

"They know what’s at stake," he said. "But they would have supported me whatever my choice. In the past, as soon as I could go to