The NBA will tip off a pair of games in Paris beginning Thursday, Jan. 23, with San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama playing the de facto host in his home country. The “Paris Games” come on the heels of a successful basketball showcase during the 2024 Summer Olympics in the French capital.
The Spurs are hoping that a homecoming for “Wemby,” as he is known, can help them shake off their funk. They have lost six of their last seven games. Both of their matchups in Paris will be against the playoff-contending Indiana Pacers.
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Thursday’s game tips off at 2 p.m. EST on NBA TV, while Saturday’s game will tip off at noon EST on ESPN.
The 7’4” Wembanyama spoke to reporters on Tuesday, Jan. 21, about playing in the gym where he made his professional debut at 15.
“There was a lot of excitement, and it was even a bit surreal to see my teammates in this arena where I’ve spent so much time,” Wembanyama said. “It’s like two worlds coming together, and so far, it’s going well. In any case, it’s a real pleasure, it’s very emotional.”
The event has been dubbed “Wemby Week,” and ground zero is Accor Arena, where both the men’s and women’s teams from the U.S. beat France in a pair of thrilling gold medal games.
Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton was on the U.S. Men’s Olympic roster but didn’t see much time on the court. He’ll be a centerpiece of both games this time and still has some great Olympic memories.
“It definitely means a lot. I’m excited to be here and excited to actually play, like play, in this arena,” Haliburton said. “But nah, just excited to be here. It will be a fun atmosphere and a fun game.“
Only one thing is missing from the weekend celebration, and that is San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, who is still recovering from a stroke he suffered in early November.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle talked about missing “Pop,” the all-time leader in coaching wins. “He’s an institution, he’s been such a constant, and it’s uh, it’s different, not seeing him,” Carlisle said. “I’ve had some communication with him. He’s doing better all the time, and the hope is he’ll be back.“
This weekend’s two NBA games are the fourth and fifth regular season matchups to be played in France. According to the league, fans from a record 53 countries and territories have purchased tickets to the showcase.
