Victor Wembanyama Praised For Refusing To Sign Endorsements With Top U.S. Brands

Victor Wembanyama is quickly becoming the face of the NBA.

The San Antonio Spurs star, who's 7-foot-4, has dominated the NBA Playoffs, leading his team to the NBA Finals. While the Spurs are trailing the Knicks, 2-0, heading into Game 3, it's still been a magical run for Wemby, who's in just his third year in the NBA.

Becoming the face of the NBA typically results in massive endorsement money. Michael Jordan, LeBron James and others have made hundreds of millions of dollars from endoring top U.S. companies, like Nike, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, McDonald's, etc.

But it doesn't sound like Wembanyama plans on doing that.

Wembanyama's agent, Jeremy Medjana, revealed that U.S. soda companies in particular have tried to strike partnerships with the French star. However, Wembanyama is refusing to work with them.

"We're not gonna mix his image with sodas like Coca-Cola," Medjana told Jared Weiss of The Athletic. "They all want him, but Victor will never sell soda. Because he doesn't want to kill the kids."

It's a bit of an extreme statement, of course. However, many are praising Wembanyama for not playing with his morals and ethics.

NBA fans praise Wembanyama for his decision

NBA fans can respect Wembanyama's decision, even if they don't all agree with him.

"If true, I support it. He's young. He will make plenty of money in the NBA and other endorsements. He will be just fine without coke," one fan wrote.

"Wow that is the difference between French and American," one fan added.

"This poses an interesting question: Would those who say take the money, do something for money, that they know or believe would cause harm to others, especially kids?" another fan added.

"Wasn't there some chatter about a $250,000,000.00 contract in the works for Victor? He's gonna take enough money, don't worry," another fan added.

"He can sign with them on the condition they develop alternatives that are more suitable and reduce targeted ads at children. You can say No in different ways that are just as effective. If you don't, someone else will sign with them. They don't need you," another fan pointed out.

What do you make of Wemby's decision - smart or misguided?

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This story was originally published June 7, 2026 at 8:00 AM.