In a historic move that sends a clear message to the NBA, the San Antonio Spurs have made it official: legendary coach and newly appointed team president Gregg Popovich is preparing to sign franchise cornerstone Victor Wembanyama to a jaw-dropping 7-year, $495 million contract extension — the richest deal in NBA history.
Multiple league sources have confirmed that the agreement, which is expected to be finalized in the coming days, will make Wembanyama not only the highest-paid player in Spurs history but also the highest-paid player in the NBA, eclipsing deals previously held by stars like Nikola Jokić and Stephen Curry.
Wembanyama, 20, took the league by storm in his rookie season, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 blocks, and 1.4 assists per game. His unique combination of size, agility, and skill has not only transformed the Spurs into a must-watch team but also re-established San Antonio as a serious long-term contender.
Popovich, who recently transitioned into the role of team president while retaining his coaching duties, called the extension a “no-brainer” during a brief media statement on Monday. “Victor is the type of player you build dynasties around. We’re not just investing in his talent — we’re investing in our future,” Popovich said.
The new deal will reportedly include incentives tied to MVP finishes, All-NBA team selections, and championship runs. Sources close to the negotiation also revealed that the contract features a player option in the final year and a no-trade clause — rare stipulations that reflect just how central Wembanyama is to the Spurs’ long-term plans.
Fans and analysts alike have praised the bold move, seeing it as a sign that San Antonio is all-in on building a new era of dominance around the French phenom. “It’s a power move,” said ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins. “This is how you keep your superstar happy and committed.”
With the NBA’s new media rights deal looming and the salary cap projected to rise significantly over the next few seasons, locking in Wembanyama now could prove to be a savvy financial decision in the long run.
For Spurs fans, it’s official: the future is Wembanyama — and it’s secured.
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