Victor Wembanyama Named Captain of French National Team

The French national basketball team has announced 22-year-old Victor Wembanyama as their new captain ahead of the upcoming FIBA World Cup European qualifiers. Wembanyama, who led the San Antonio Spurs to the NBA Finals earlier this season, was named captain unanimously. The Spurs' Defensive Player of the Year claimed the Western Conference Finals MVP award after the Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Wembanyama told FIBA that being captain is about setting an example, leading through performance, knowing the systems and opponents, and bringing calm to the team. He expressed that this is a significant opportunity to experience this new role with the coaching staff and that he is both honored and excited about the responsibility. While the appointment may have come earlier than expected, Wembanyama emphasized that it wasn't rushed and is a great honor.

Team France will face Nikola Jokic and Team Serbia in two friendlies before hosting Slovenia in their first European qualifier match on August 27. The San Antonio Spurs will kick off their 2026-27 regular season against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 20.