Will Victor Wembanyama play in front of a home crowd in Paris again in 2027?

The NBA’s announcement that the San Antonio Spurs will play a regular-season game in Paris in 2027 was already notable on its own. But adding to the excitement is the possibility of Victor Wembanyama playing in front of a home crowd in France once again.

The Spurs are scheduled to face the New Orleans Pelicans at the Accor Arena on January 14, 2027, marking one of the league’s most high-profile international matchups of the season. And for French basketball fans, it represents something much bigger than another overseas game.

A potential homecoming moment for France’s biggest NBA star

Victor Wembanyama has already become one of the most recognizable international stars in basketball, and his presence has transformed the Spurs into a global attraction. Barring any crazy Doncic-like surprises, Wemby should still be with San Antonio, and if he’s is healthy when the 2027 game arrives, the matchup would represent a rare opportunity for him to play a regular-season NBA game in his home country, potentially leading the team on the floor.

While the NBA has not confirmed player availability for the event, the emotional significance of the matchup is already clear. Paris has hosted NBA regular-season games before, but few, if any, have carried this level of personal connection to a featured player.

The Spurs are no strangers to international exposure, but this particular trip feels different. The combination of a rising global superstar, a French venue, and the league’s continued push into Europe has elevated the significance of the 2027 schedule announcement.

The game also arrives as part of the NBA’s initiative to expand their footprint across Europe, with Manchester set to host its first-ever regular-season game just days later.

Still, it is the Paris matchup that has captured the most attention, thanks to Wemby. What may have been just a regular-season game is now one of the most anticipated international moments on the NBA calendar. With roughly eight months still to go before tip-off, the anticipation is only just beginning.

Related stories

NBA

Chet Holmgren video vs. Victor Wembanyama goes viral

NBA

Wemby admits it was “personal” after MVP loss

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.