Victor Wembanyama's Missing Friend Found After Spurs Star's Plea

Elijah Hoard, 23, was located safe after going missing at Chicago's O'Hare airport

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Victor Wembanyama's friend Elijah Hoard, 23, has been found safe after going missing at Chicago's O'Hare airport on February 27. Hoard failed to board his flight home to France, prompting Wembanyama to use social media to increase awareness about his disappearance. Hoard's father Antwon said his son suffers from mental illness and had expressed reluctance to return to France after a 10-day visit. Wembanyama expressed relief that Hoard was located, saying they have been close friends for a long time.

Why it matters

The disappearance of Wembanyama's friend highlighted the challenges that can arise when traveling, especially for those dealing with mental health issues. Wembanyama's public plea for help in locating Hoard demonstrated the power of social media to raise awareness and assist in finding missing persons.

The details

Elijah Hoard, 23, went missing on February 27 after failing to board his flight home to France from Chicago's O'Hare airport. Hoard's father Antwon said his son suffers from mental illness and had become increasingly reluctant to return to France after a 10-day visit. Surveillance footage showed Hoard in the Rosemont, Illinois neighborhood near the airport. The Chicago Police Department did not release details on how Hoard was ultimately found.

  • Hoard went missing on February 27 after failing to board his flight home to France.
  • Wembanyama posted about Hoard's disappearance on his social media on March 2.
  • Hoard was found safe approximately one hour before Wembanyama spoke to reporters on March 3.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

A 22-year-old NBA player for the San Antonio Spurs who is close friends with Elijah Hoard.

Elijah Hoard

A 23-year-old who went missing at Chicago's O'Hare airport on February 27 while traveling from France to return home.

Antwon Hoard

Elijah Hoard's father, who said his son suffers from mental illness and had become reluctant to return to France after a 10-day visit.

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What they’re saying

“He was found, like one hour ago. I'm so happy. We've been close for a long time, his family and mine.”

— Victor Wembanyama, NBA Player, San Antonio Spurs (People)

“Everything seemed pretty normal the first eight days, but the last two days his whole mood had swung, and he was really adamant about not going back home, and he didn't want to go home.”

— Antwon Hoard, Elijah Hoard's Father (ABC 7 Chicago)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of being aware of and supporting the mental health needs of those close to us, especially when traveling. Wembanyama's public plea for help in locating his missing friend demonstrated the power of community and social media to assist in finding those who have gone missing.