Alien in the Big Apple: Victor Wembanyama spotted playing chess in New York City park after Nets game
San Antonio Spurs poster boy Victor Wembanyama proved to be a man of the people by taking his love for chess out in public on a gloomy day in New York City.
While in town for back-to-back games against the Knicks and Nets, The Alien decided to have an immersive experience in the Big Apple, taking to Washington Square Park in Manhattan on Saturday morning.
Before fans gathered to see the 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year take on New York residents in the game of minds, he scouted the city for the best spots to play chess.
After the Spurs' 96-87 win over Brooklyn at Barclays Center on Friday, the Frenchman took to X and asked 'What are the best spots to play chess in NYC ??'
Ten hours later, he dropped a location for fans to meet him, Washington Square which is a hub for chess enthusiasts in the city.
'Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,' Wemby followed up.
Victor Wembanyama played chess with New York City residents at Washington Square Park
The NBA's social media pages later posted a montage of Wembanyama taking on different challengers as it drizzled over the heart of NYU's campus grounds.
While reposting the video, Wemby suggested 'We need an NBA players only Chess tournament, proceeds go to the charity of choice of the winner.'
After the session, Wembanyama posted a photo with the fans who participated and attended, writing 'Thanks for everyone who pulled up in the rain.'
Wembanyama and the Spurs split their games in the Empire State, starting with a 117-114 Christmas Day loss to the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Despite the result, Wembanyama dropped a 42-point performance with 18 rebounds and four blocks.
Against Brooklyn, Wembanyama scored 19 points with seven boards and six swats.
The Spurs are 16-15 sitting ninth in the Western Conference.
