Victor Wembanyama Engages in Spiritual Retreat at Shaolin Temple

Zhengzhou, China — NBA star Victor Wembanyama is currently on a 10-day retreat at a Shaolin temple in Zhengzhou, China. The temple is renowned for its teachings in Chan meditation, Shaolin Kung Fu, and traditional Chinese medicine. The NBA China office confirmed Wembanyama’s stay at the temple, details of which have also been reported by local media.

A post on the NBA’s Weibo account encouraged Wembanyama to “concentrate on training” during his visit. Social media has been abuzz with images of the 7-foot-4 center, showing him with a shaved head and dressed in a monk-like robe.

Earlier in his trip, Wembanyama shared footage of himself visiting the Great Wall of China, describing his experiences as “amazing.” He posted the video on his Instagram account as well as on the San Antonio Spurs‘ social media pages.

The 21-year-old was sidelined last season due to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, which he was diagnosed with shortly after his first NBA All-Star Game appearance. Wembanyama is expected to return to the United States soon and may participate in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas next month.

Despite his injury, Wembanyama had a remarkable season, leading the NBA in blocked shots with 176. He averaged impressive statistics: 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game. He will also be looking to represent France in the upcoming European championships this summer.

As the Rookie of the Year, Wembanyama had drawn considerable attention and was regarded as a favorite in the race for this year’s Defensive Player of the Year award.