San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has voiced his support for high school students protesting in France, praising young people for speaking up and encouraging others to listen to them. The French basketball star said he supports the students and hopes more people will stand behind them.
“I'm glad that high school students and young people in general are speaking up,” Wembanyama said in comments shared by NBA reporter Jared Weiss on X. “Because I hear them, and I support them, and I hope the people all over there will do the same,” he added.
Wembanyama's comments highlight his support for young people who want their voices heard. Students in France have raised concerns about conditions in schools, including teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and poor facilities. Their protests have drawn attention to problems that they believe affect their education and future opportunities.
Although he plays professionally in the United States, the Spurs star continues to speak about issues involving people in his home country.
His statement focused on the students' right to express their views and the importance of listening to what they have to say. Wembanyama also encouraged people in France to show their support for the young protesters. The 22-year-old did not identify a specific demand or policy in the quotation Weiss shared.
Still, his support brings attention to the concerns of young people in France. As one of the country's most recognizable athletes, Wembanyama has a platform that reaches audiences beyond basketball. His comments also show that he remains interested in issues affecting his home country while building his NBA career.
For now, Wembanyama has publicly backed the students, but the available statement does not confirm whether he plans to attend a protest in person.