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[Saba Sports News] LeBron James and the NBA have shown a growing interest in Las Vegas, but Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama has a markedly different view of the city. He described Las Vegas as “the closest thing on earth to a dystopia,” indicating his strong aversion to the city known for its lavish entertainment and gaming culture.
Despite only a few visits, Wembanyama’s experiences in Las Vegas have been enough to form a firm decision not to return. This season, he won’t need to, as the in-season tournament in Las Vegas has concluded. However, Las Vegas, with a population exceeding 640,000, is a burgeoning urban area famous for its casinos, shows, and intense heat, and has recently expanded into sports with teams like the Vegas Raiders and Golden Knights.
As the NBA considers expansion, cities like Seattle, Vancouver, and Mexico City are potential candidates, with Las Vegas being a prominent contender due to its robust market and the NBA’s existing ties through events like the in-season tournament at T-Mobile Arena.
LeBron James is notably interested in owning a potential NBA franchise in Las Vegas, aligning with his post-retirement ambitions. However, Wembanyama’s lack of enthusiasm for the city implies he is unlikely to be part of such a venture, preferring to stay with the Spurs.
Wembanyama’s disinterest in Las Vegas’ nightlife and preference for low-key activities like dining out align well with the Spurs’ business-focused ethos. The Spurs, currently with a 5-25 record, are not front-runners in the Western Conference, but there’s hope that Wembanyama’s leadership could drive the team to new heights. His commitment to the Spurs suggests a potential long-term association, fostering optimism for future success.