new york – After defeating the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night, NBA Rookie of the Year Victor Wembaneyama did something unexpected off the court.
The 7-foot-3 Spurs star invited New Yorkers to a game of chess in Washington Square Park.
“Anyone want to meet me at the southwest corner of Washington Square Park to play chess? I’ll be there,” Wenbanyama posted on X.
His late-night call garnered over 65,000 likes and a flurry of comments, with some questioning whether the basketball phenom was being serious.
“How do I know it’s you?” one user asked. Another chimed in: “You won’t miss the 7’6” guy, I promise.
Fans waited in the pouring rain to see if Wenby would really show up and he didn’t disappoint. Social media quickly filled with photos of NBA stars sitting at chess tables, eyeing their next move as raindrops soaked the park. ”


For many, the moment was surreal. “It’s not every day you see a guy your size casually playing chess in the middle of Washington Square Park,” said one onlooker.
Some marveled at his dedication, considering he was scheduled to play the Timberwolves on Sunday. “Already in the GOAT combo, but this one alone,” one fan wrote.
The results of his chess match are still kept secret, but one thing is for sure: Wenbanyama’s stay in New York wasn’t just about basketball. His impromptu chess sessions added an extra layer to his game.
he posed for a photo Along with dozens of people who braved the morning rain to play chess with one of the NBA’s biggest stars.
“We need a chess tournament just for NBA players. Proceeds go to the winner’s charity of choice,” he wrote on social media after the chess trip.
Wenbanyama is averaging 25.2 points and 10.1 rebounds this season, becoming the second NBA player to do so after last season’s Rookie of the Year. The Spurs will play Minnesota on Sunday.