Victor Wembanyama Reveals Unexpected Lessons Learned at Shaolin Temple That Could Change His Game Forever

Every now and then, a story pops up that’s just too good to ignore—this one’s definitely one of ’em. Picture this: Victor Wembanyama, standing a staggering 7’3″, shaving his head and donning traditional robes, sprinting through the historic Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, China. That’s right, the San Antonio Spurs phenom traded the hardwood for the monastery, immersing himself in the daily grind of kung fu practice and vegan temple life, pushing his body far beyond the usual basketball drills. It’s a wild dive into discipline and isolation that’s a far cry from his usual routine, and it’s resonated with fans and commentators alike. Wembanyama’s journey during this private retreat isn’t just about physical endurance—it’s a fascinating peek at how an athlete of his caliber expands his limits in unexpected ways. Intrigued yet? LEARN MORE

“It was a great experience,” Wembanyama said. “My goal going there was putting my body through things that it’s not used to doing and allowing my range of movement and strength. This was probably as very different as possible from what I’m used to doing.”
So what did that look like?

Wembanyama opened up about the experience at the Fanatics Fest in New York on Sunday. Quotes via Larry Holder at The Athletic.“Kung fu. Everyday. It was like a vegan temple, monastery. … I was isolated,” Wembanyama said,

He added that he had to sneak out and get some meat dishes to help him maintain the 245 pounds he has now reached.This was a casual affair, where Wembanyama played chess against 100 people lined up (he won) and had a conversation in “The Shop” with Tom Brady, LeBron James, and others, during which he discussed his experience in China. He did not discuss the blood clot in his shoulder issue, which prematurely ended last season for him, although he is expected to be recovered and ready for the start of training camp. The Spurs will have a full season with him, De’Aaron Fox at the point, rookie Dylan Harper (who they are expected to draft with the No. 2 pick next week) and a roster that can make some noise in the Western Conference. The images were all over social media: 7’3″ Victor Wembanyama with a shaved head, wearing robes and running with monks at a Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, China.