NBA star Victor Wembanyama, known for his remarkable skills on the basketball court with the San Antonio Spurs, took a break from the game to engage in a different kind of competition—chess. On a rainy Saturday, Wemby invited fans via social media to join him for a day of chess at Washington Square Park in New York City. By 9:30 a.m., he had set up at the southwest corner of the park, ready to challenge anyone willing to play.

Despite the dreary weather, a number of fans turned out to face the talented forward-center. Wembanyama documented the gathering, posting a photo of himself at one of the park’s many chess boards surrounded by opponents. He expressed gratitude to those who braved the rain to participate, showcasing his friendly and approachable demeanor. The NBA also shared a video collage of the event, highlighting Wemby’s interactions with the fans and the spirited matches taking place.

In a playful suggestion, Wemby proposed the idea of organizing a chess tournament exclusively for NBA players, with the proceeds benefiting the winner's charity of choice. This fun initiative reflects Wembanyama's interest in combining sports and philanthropy during his holiday week in the Northeast, where he had already played against the Philadelphia 76ers, the New York Knicks on Christmas Day, and the Brooklyn Nets later in the week. His chess day not only entertained fans but also illustrated his multifaceted personality off the court.