NBA Star Victor “Wemby” Wembanyama Plays Chess with Fans in Washington Square Park

NBA superstar Victor “Wemby” Wembanyama made headlines in New York City over the weekend, not for his basketball skills, but for his love of chess. The towering San Antonio Spurs player, standing at 7’3″, took to Washington Square Park on a rainy Saturday to challenge fans to a game of chess.

Wembanyama, who recently won the 2024 Rookie of the Year award, reached out to his Twitter followers for suggestions on where to play chess in the city. This led to an impromptu chess session in the park, where around 30 to 40 people showed up to take on the basketball star.

Among the participants was Chess.com’s Product Manager Dylan Rittman, who had the opportunity to play against Wembanyama. Despite the rainy weather, Wembanyama remained gracious and focused during the games, even sharing a picture with fans afterwards to show his appreciation.

The NBA star’s love for chess is part of a growing trend among basketball players, with many embracing the game as a mental exercise and competitive outlet off the court. Wembanyama’s idea of hosting an NBA players-only chess tournament was met with enthusiasm from Chess.com, further highlighting the intersection of sports and chess in the world of professional athletes.

Overall, Wembanyama’s chess session in Washington Square Park turned a dreary day into a memorable experience for fans and showcased his passion for the game beyond the basketball court.