LOOK: Spurs Star Victor Wembanyama Surprises New York Locals with Chess Match

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SAN ANTONIO — It seems two games weren’t enough for Victor Wembanyama.
The morning after the San Antonio Spurs moved back over .500 with a win over the Brooklyn Nets, the 7-foot-4 power forward decided to make the most of his time in the big apple.
“What are the best spots to play chess in NYC??” he asked on X, formerly Twitter.
Turns out, there were a few.
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Wembanyama made his way to the Southwest corner of Washington Square Park, about four miles from Barclays Center, and asked fans to meet him there.
And then he played as many as he could.
Thanks for everyone who pulled up in the rain 😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/qblm9xzOfL
— Wemby (@wemby) December 28, 2024
Wembanyama has long-been an avid chess enthusiast — on par with his other off-court interests — so his mid-morning excursion isn’t much of a surprise.
As far as his chess record in New York? Remains to be seen.
But if he took any advice from Chris Paul, he likely didn’t show up with intent to lose.
"I don't care if it's practice,” Paul said over the offseason. “I don't care if it's a shooting contest. I don't think you should play anything if you're just doing it for s**** and giggles."
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Wembanyama might practice his chess further over the next few weeks, but as far as the Spurs go, they’re set to remain in colder climate for another bout with the Minnesota Timberwolves Sunday evening.
Tipoff from Target Center is set for 7 p.m. CST.
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Matt Guzman is a sports journalist and storyteller from Austin, Texas. He serves as a credentialed reporter and site manager for San Antonio Spurs On SI. In the world of professional sports, he’s a firm believer that athletes are people, too. He aims to spotlight the true, behind-the-scenes character of players and teams through strong narrative writing and sharp, hooking ledes.
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