Victor Wembanyama Brings Chess to the Streets of New York
A Morning of Chess in Washington Square Park
Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. But it wasn’t basketball he was playing. He was playing chess. And he even lost a couple of games.
Wembanyama, a professional basketball player for the San Antonio Spurs, brought his own chess set and played four games in the rain at Washington Square Park. He won two games and lost two, both to professional chess players.
A Call to the Chess Community
Before the Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: "Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there." People began showing up almost immediately, and Wembanyama was there for an hour, from 10-11 a.m.
A Famous Spot for Chess
Washington Square Park is a known spot for chess in New York, with famous players like Bobby Fischer having played there. It’s also been used for multiple movie scenes featuring the game.
A Passion for Chess
Wembanyama had been trying to get somewhere to play chess for the bulk of the team’s time in New York, but the schedule never aligned. He even braved the cold rain to make it happen. He posed for photos with a couple of dozen people who showed up, braving the weather to play chess with one of the NBA’s biggest stars.
A Suggestion for the Future
After his chess trip was over, Wembanyama took to social media to suggest an idea: "We need an NBA players only Chess tournament, proceeds go to the charity of choice of the winner."
A Star on the Court and Off
Wembanyama is averaging 25.2 points and 10.1 rebounds this season, his second in the NBA after winning rookie of the year last season. The Spurs play at Minnesota on Sunday.
FAQs
Q: Who is Victor Wembanyama?
A: Victor Wembanyama is a professional basketball player for the San Antonio Spurs.
Q: What game did Wembanyama play with fans in Washington Square Park?
A: Wembanyama played chess with fans in Washington Square Park.
Q: How many games did Wembanyama win and lose?
A: Wembanyama won two games and lost two, both to professional chess players.
Q: What was the outcome of the Spurs’ game against the Knicks on Christmas?
A: The Spurs won the game against the Knicks on Christmas.
