LAS VEGAS – The journey of the Emirates NBA Cup 2025 initially twisted through 28 cities, made some turns both sharp and unexpected, had some surprises and reached some dead ends. The defending NBA champs did not survive, nor did the current Eastern Conference leader, nor the defending Cup champions.

NBA legend Tony Parker is excited and proud of what his fellow Frenchman, Victor Wembanyama, has accomplished in his professional career with the San Antonio Spurs. He is confident that with the way the young big man is carving his path, he will end up in the company of the best in history.

Wembanyama last played during an NBA Cup Group C game against the Golden State Warriors on November 14. An MRI later confirmed a left calf strain, announced by the Spurs on November 17. San Antonio stayed careful, following league-wide trends around calf injuries.