The NBA’s French Revolution

The NBA’s future is looking increasingly French, a testament to the countries continued investment in the sport and the leagues desire to be an international destination

On a Thursday night in New York City, a nineteen-year-old Victor Wembanyama sits at a table surrounded by those closest to him. Wembanyama is wearing all black for the occasion, and it is perhaps the most important day of his young life. He is about to be drafted by the San Antonio Spurs with the first overall pick in the draft. As commissioner Adam Silver says his name and confirms what many already know, he nods as he gets up. It’s a big moment for him and for the Spurs but it is also a momentous achievement for France, his home country.

The arrival of Victor Wembanyama to the NBA and becoming a superstar is the headline of a story that is currently being written. We are in the golden age of French talent making its way to the league. Since 2022, there have been seven French players drafted in the first round and that number seems likely to continue rising in the years to come. This coming draft will likely have multiple French players with potential to be first round picks. Additionally, the French Olympic team featured seven NBA players, a very high number for a non-American team. A revolution of French talent will soon be reflected in every NBA roster, a nod to how far the country has come in terms…