San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has been added to France's national team roster for the opening round of 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifying, according to Bleacher Report, which cited AFP.
The 22-year-old center will be available for France's first two qualifying matches against Slovenia and Sweden. He is also expected to take part in a pair of preparatory friendlies against Serbia before the qualifiers begin.
Wemby Called France's Undisputed Leader
French national team head coach Frederic Fauthoux emphasized the significance of Wembanyama's inclusion, describing him as central to the program's long-term vision.
"[Wembanyama is] extremely important for the future of the project we want to pursue," Fauthoux said. "Victor is the undisputed leader of this generation. We need him here so that a relationship can develop with the rest of the squad, both on and off the court."
Return After Health Scare and NBA Finals Run
Wembanyama missed Euro 2025 after being diagnosed with venous thrombosis in his right shoulder. His last major international appearance came at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he helped France claim a silver medal.
During that Olympic tournament, he averaged 15.8 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, two steals, and 1.7 blocks across six games. He posted 26 points and seven rebounds in the gold-medal contest, a loss to the United States.
Dominant NBA Season Preceded Qualifiers
Wembanyama's 2025-26 NBA campaign further cemented his standing as one of the league's premier talents. He averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, one steal, and a league-leading 3.1 blocks per game.
Those numbers earned him Defensive Player of the Year honors and a first-team All-NBA selection. He finished third in MVP voting and guided the Spurs to the NBA Finals, where they fell to the New York Knicks.
With Wemby back in the fold, France gains a proven difference-maker as it begins the road to the 2027 FIBA World Cup. His presence elevates the squad's prospects against top-tier international competition and gives fans a centerpiece to rally behind during the qualifying window.
