Victor Wembanyama got emotional on Tuesday following the San Antonio Spurs’ loss to the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup final. However, the reason for his tears is beyond the game itself.
Wembanyama came off the bench for the second straight game, as the Spurs continue to ease him back following a 12-game absence due to a calf injury. The NBA star tallied 18 points, six rebounds, one steal and two blocks in 25 minutes of action.
Unfortunately, the Spurs lost to the Knicks, 124-113, with the ‘Bockers using a 35-19 fourth quarter to turn things around.
Speaking to reporters in his postgame presser, Wembanyama was seen in tears, as he revealed that he “lost somebody today.”
Victor Wembanyama’s Grandmother Passes Away
Wembanyama didn’t reveal during the presser the person he lost, but reports soon emerged confirming that his grandmother in France passed away.
According to Jared Weiss of The Athletic, Wembanyama learned of his grandma’s death on Tuesday morning, hours before the Spurs faced the Knicks in the NBA Cup final.
Many were quick to show their support for Wembanyama, with many also showing their sympathy and understanding for the 21-year-old big man.
“Sending strength, Wembanyama,” a commenter wrote. Another one said, “Wembanyama’s decision to show up and speak through his grief reflects immense maturity and strength. It’s a reminder that even elite athletes carrying global expectations are still human beings dealing with very real loss.”
“Prayers to Victor, going through the same thing. Stay strong @wemby,” a fan added.
“That puts the performance into perspective. To play an NBA Cup Final just hours after getting that call—and keep it together for 48 minutes—is incredible mental toughness for a 21-year-old. We often forget these guys are human first. Massive respect to him for suiting up at all,” a supporter remarked.
A fifth follower stated, “i’m so sorry for your loss Wemby. you still played hard for her tonight.”
While the Spurs have yet to announce Wembanyama’s status moving forward, it’s safe to expect he’ll be sidelined for the time being to go back home and join his family as they mourn the unfortunate loss.
