Knicks’ Porzingis out vs. Bulls with sore Achilles

Victor Wembanyama’s busy summer just got a bit less busy. Wembanyama has chosen to opt out of playing for France at the 2023 FIBA World Cup later this summer. The generational prospect is going to use the time to prepare for his rookie season in the NBA and the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

After selecting Wembanyama with the first overall pick at the 2023 NBA Draft, the San Antonio Spurs spoke about his packed summer and the need to manage it appropriately. The 7-foot-4 big man plans to play in some Summer League games for the Spurs, and then he’ll focus on getting ready for his NBA season.

Wembanyama understands there is likely disappointment in his decision to skip the World Cup, but he hopes people will understand his side of things.

“It would not be realistic in terms of development and not prudent in terms of health,” Wembanyama said in announcing his decision to French newspaper L’Equipe. “I hope people will understand. It’s frustrating for me, too. The France team is still central for me. I want to win as many titles as possible with the team. But I think it’s a necessary sacrifice.”

Fred VanVleet has one more guaranteed season under contract with the Houston Rockets. The team has a $44.9 million option on VanVleet for the 2025-26 season. If the veteran point guard has his way, he’ll be in Houston for a long time.

“I didn’t come here to be a rental,” VanVleet said. “I didn’t come here to be a free agent (again). I came here for a long-term home. I’ve loved my time here so far. I think I have a good understanding with management and the coaches about what the future looks like with this team. The business will always take care of itself. I don’t really get too concerned with that stuff. That stuff will work itself out. But I think my family and I will be in Texas. I came here for a home, and I think I found one.”

VanVleet is also relishing helping a young team grow into a playoff contender. He uses his experience as an undrafted player to mentor his younger teammates.

“Every last one of them, I have a great relationship with all the guys,” VanVleet said. “There’s a lot more of us than there is … stars in the league. The rest of the guys are trying to figure it out. I can always relate to those guys. I always tell the story I was a side-hoop guy. I was the guy shooting on the side with no coaches. I was rebounding with myself. I always keep that in mind.”