Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama uses Shaolin training with a basketball high kick
Victor Vembanyama isn’t just one of the most unique talents in modern NBA history. He is also one of the most unique individuals in the sport today. The San Antonio Spurs the center is fiercely committed to its craft, but broadens its horizons to other hobbies and activities. Vembanyama spent more than a week at the Shaolin Temple in China last June, using the time to train his body in more ways than one. His stay included Shaolin Kung Fu lessons, which actually came in handy in Tuesday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
All-Star and two-time blocking king went into action during the break between the first and second quarters. The basketballs got stuck in the net, prompting Vembanyama to take a high shot to free them. The man has many talents. His martial arts prowess carried over to the court, as he scored a game-high 30 points in just 21 minutes.
Wembi karate shot basketballs that were stuck in the net 🦵🏀pic.twitter.com/MkVg3i4kPI
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 7, 2026
The Spurs (25-11) fell victim to Cam Spencer and the Grizzlies (16-20), however, squandering a four-point lead with 1:39 left in the contest. The tough 106-105 loss wasn’t the comeback that Vembanyama had hoped for from a team standpoint, but it certainly left its mark on Memphis’ FedExForum.
The 22-year-old Frenchman didn’t look rusty after that missed the last two games with a hyperextended knee, displaying the kind of offensive dominance that has convinced many to label him as a future NBA MVP. If Victor Wembanyama can stay healthy — he’s played in just 22 of 36 games this season — he should have a fantastic career.
And when he’s done with basketball, the versatile big man can turn his attention to mastering Shaolin Kung Fu. He will continue to absorb the knowledge as the Spurs return home to face the Los Angeles Lakers (23-11) on Wednesday.
2026-01-07 03:50:00
