LeBron James is reportedly earning $15 million a year from promoting Polymarket, the prediction-market platform, in the same season he is playing on a two-year, $8 million veteran's minimum deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. In stark contrast, Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs' French star, has flatly refused to put his name to gambling companies. "Honestly, I think it's very sad to see some players promote it, in my opinion," Wembanyama told reporters, taking aim at a trend that has taken hold across the league. "Everybody does whatever they want, but without me."
His principles do not stop at gambling. The French giant has also turned down multimillion-dollar soda deals, Coca-Cola among them, convinced that such drinks harm children's health. Wembanyama said he has refused more money than he has ever earned, because his greatest strength lies in inspiring the next generation. In the wake of a painful defeat by the New York Knicks in the 2026 NBA Finals, the young centre is emerging as the league's new moral face, untouched by questionable partnerships.
