Victor Wembanyama captivated the Parisian crowd with a heartfelt “Bonsoir Paris” as he addressed fans before the tip-off at the Bercy Arena, marking the beginning of the NBA Paris Games 2025. The atmosphere was electric, enhanced by a passionate rendition of the Marseillaise and the iconic “Imperial March” from Star Wars, as the San Antonio Spurs took the floor.
Wembanyama, speaking in fluent French, expressed his gratitude, describing the moment as a cherished memory while urging support for his team to ensure future NBA visits to Paris. His words resonated with the crowd, eliciting cheers and excitement.
The 21-year-old star showcased his extraordinary talent during the game, leading the Spurs to a commanding 140-110 victory over the Indiana Pacers. He shone with a double-double performance, scoring 30 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and delivering six assists along with five blocks—a testament to his skill and composure on such a significant occasion.
The highlight of the game was a dominant stretch in the third quarter where the Spurs outscored the Pacers 45 to 23. Wembanyama’s performance included pivotal moments where he scored, rebounded, and blocked shots, creating a stunning showcase for the home fans. With this remarkable display, the Spurs established a significant 105-80 lead entering the final quarter.
Wembanyama’s teammates also stepped up for this memorable occasion. Devin Vassell contributed 25 points, while 2016 Olympic champion Harrison Barnes added 20 points. The returning Jeremy Sochan played a key role with 13 points and nine rebounds after recovering from injury. Overall, the Spurs ended the game with an impressive 43 assists and out-rebounded the Pacers 57-31.
Though attended by various basketball legends, including Pau Gasol and David Robinson, it was Wembanyama who shone the brightest, cementing his status as a rising star in the NBA. This event not only highlighted Wembanyama’s potential but also underscored the enthusiasm for basketball in France, promising an exciting future for the sport in the country.