NBA : Victor Wembanyama stays with the Spurs… and turns down $50 million
Victor Wembanyama is set to be the face of the San Antonio Spurs for years to come. The Texas franchise has confirmed a new deal for its French big man, who has signed a five-year rookie extension worth $252 million. It was the move everyone expected, but it came with a bold call from Wembanyama himself.
Even though he could have pushed his earnings higher thanks to his Defensive Player of the Year award, Wembanyama chose not to take the maximum figure he was eligible for. It’s a financial sacrifice that says plenty about how he sees the project in San Antonio.
A decision made with the Spurs’ future in mind
As the league’s best defender, Victor Wembanyama met the criteria for the Derrick Rose Rule, which would have opened the door to a five-year extension worth close to $303 million.
The Spurs put several options on the table, including the max-value deal. In the end, Wembanyama opted for a contract set at 25% of the salary cap, or around $252 million. The gap works out at just over $50 million over the life of the deal.
According to Shams Charania, the decision was made with the franchise’s approval in order to keep more financial flexibility. That extra room should help with future extensions for young players such as Stephon Castle or Dylan Harper, while also giving the team more options to strengthen the roster.
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“Spurs family, I’m here to stay”
Shortly before the official announcement, Victor Wembanyama had already sent a simple message to Spurs fans on social media: “Spurs family, I’m here to stay. Whatever it takes.”
Team owner Peter J. Holt, CEO R.C. Buford, general manager Brian Wright and head coach Mitch Johnson even travelled to Paris to finalise the extension with Wembanyama and his camp.
At just 22, Wembanyama is coming off a superb season. Defensive Player of the Year, an All-Star starter and an All-NBA First Team selection, he averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds and more than three blocks a night while leading San Antonio all the way to the NBA Finals.
The Spurs have now locked up their franchise player for the years ahead. More than the money, though, it is the message from Wembanyama that stands out: he would rather give his team a better shot at winning a title than chase the biggest payday.
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Photo credit: AL BELLO / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP
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