The Resilience of Victor Wembanyama
SAN ANTONIO – Julian Champagnie, a wing for the San Antonio Spurs, recently reflected on an eye-opening moment while watching his teammates take turns against Victor Wembanyama, the team’s towering 7-foot-4 center. As each player attempted to score, many faced blocked shots, but they had the opportunity to strategize during their breaks. The only one who didn’t get a respite? Wembanyama.
The Intense Training Regimen
The drill was straightforward: Wembanyama defended one-on-one against every player in the gym without pause. After facing off against all of them, he would dash to the other end of the court to repeat the process. Champagnie commented, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone work out like that. It’s crazy to see.”
Rebounding from Adversity
Wembanyama faced significant challenges after a blood clot ended his 2024-25 NBA season prematurely. This summer, he pushed himself to restore his health and game, remarking, “My training this summer, it was brutal.” He opted for an intense approach to regain physical strength, prioritizing bodily health over shooting practice.
Reflecting and Reconnecting
His journey took him across China and Japan, where he engaged in Chan meditation and Shaolin kung fu at a Shaolin temple in Zhengzhou. This experience allowed him to connect with life’s subtleties and understand deeper lessons. “There’s a big feeling that life isn’t forever,” Wembanyama shared, emphasizing his desire to maximize his experiences.
Innovative Training Techniques
Upon returning to the U.S., he sought new training techniques, joining his teammate Harrison Barnes in Los Angeles for workouts that utilized the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA). This method emphasizes live-action training, allowing Wembanyama to learn the game creatively rather than through scripted plays. As his second week progressed, he felt more comfortable with the movements the CLA demanded.
Cultivating Excellence within the Team
Wembanyama’s commitment to training didn’t go unnoticed by teammates. “At his age, it’s eye-opening to see someone demand excellence,” said newcomer Lindy Waters III. With preseason approaching, Wembanyama expressed feeling more in control and physically prepared, labeling his summer efforts as exceptional. “I can assure you, nobody has trained like I did this summer,” he declared.
Acknowledging the Challenge Ahead
While the summer brought significant progress, Wembanyama remains aware of the potential for health challenges. Nevertheless, his determination shines through. “I feel better, I look stronger, and the scale says I’m heavier. Everything is a green light,” he concluded, ready to face whatever lies ahead.
