Victor Wembanyama spent 10 days at the Shaolin temple in Zhengzhou, China this offseason, focusing on meditation and Kung Fu practices as part of his preparation for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season. The 7-foot-4 Spurs star, entering what many consider a pivotal third year, is taking unconventional steps to develop both mentally and physically.
"OG Shyt... Stay tuned 💯 😤," wrote Garnett in a social media post showcasing their training session together.
Beyond his spiritual journey in China, Wembanyama also made time to support his San Antonio Spurs teammates at the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas. But perhaps most notably, he's now working directly with Kevin Garnett, a former NBA MVP and champion whose mentorship could prove invaluable.
Garnett's credentials speak volumes. The 15-time All-Star and 12-time All-Defensive Team selection stands as one of the most accomplished two-way big men in league history. He's actually the only player ever to combine an MVP award, Defensive Player of the Year honor, 15 All-Star selections, and an NBA Championship. Even Michael Jordan falls one All-Star selection short of matching this collection of accolades.
For Wembanyama, this training partnership makes perfect sense. Despite being one of the league's elite defenders—nearly winning Defensive Player of the Year if not for injuries—and showing remarkable offensive versatility, his first two seasons came with limited team success due to a thin supporting cast around him.
The Spurs front office has reportedly strengthened the roster heading into the 2025-26 campaign. With improved teammates and Garnett's mentorship, could this be the season Wembanyama helps push San Antonio back into playoff contention? The foundation certainly seems to be forming for the next great Spurs big man.
