Victor Wembanyama breaks down in tears as Spurs star reveals personal tragedy before NBA Cup final

NBA superstar Victor Wembanyama burst into tears during his NBA Cup final postgame interview.  The San Antonio Spurs center, 21, was unable to prevent a 124-113 defeat to the New York Knicks on Tuesday night.

Wemby recorded 18 points, six rebounds and a team-leading two blocks in 25 minutes in a losing effort.  The Spurs led for the majority of the game but tapered off in the fourth quarter.

But New York rallied late to record the in-season tournament title.  Wembanyama later faced reporters at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“Sorry,” the Frenchman suddenly said, with tears beginning to appear in his eyes.  “I lost somebody today,” he added, in between sobs.

According to The Athletic’s Jared Weiss, Wembanyama’s grandmother passed away in France.  The Spurs star only learned of her death Tuesday morning, just hours before suiting up for the NBA Cup final.

Wembanyama took two questions from the media before calling an early end to the press conference.  “That takes courage to play through,” wrote one fan in response.  “Thoughts are with him and his family,” said another.

Wembanyama was the first overall pick for the Spurs in 2023.  Standing 7-foot-4, he has quickly established himself among the league’s young elite.  Injuries have hampered his 2025 so far, with Wembanyama playing in just 13 regular season games.

He is hitting more than 50 per cent from the floor this season, as well as averaging 25.8 points per game.  The Spurs (18-7) are enjoying a strong season and are currently 4th in the Western Conference.