Spurs' Victor Wembanyama Trains with Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaolin Monks in Holistic Offseason

The NBA rising star credits the legendary big man and spiritual practices for his breakout season.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:52pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the fluid movements and intense focus of two basketball players engaged in an intense training session.The dynamic training sessions between NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon and rising star Victor Wembanyama fuse raw power and finesse, as the two collaborate to elevate the Spurs' playoff hopes.Houston Today

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama had a unique offseason, training with NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon and engaging in Shaolin monk practices. Wembanyama said Olajuwon shared valuable wisdom on footwork and mental approach, while the Shaolin training helped make him "stronger, resilient and beneficial." The 2024 Rookie of the Year is having a breakout season and leading the Spurs deep into the playoffs.

Why it matters

Wembanyama's holistic offseason regimen highlights his dedication to continuous improvement and personal growth, going beyond just physical training. His work with Olajuwon and the Shaolin monks could give him an edge as he looks to cement his status as one of the NBA's elite players.

The details

Wembanyama first met Olajuwon at the NCAA Final Four in San Antonio, where the Rockets legend immediately offered to share his knowledge. The two then engaged in private training sessions, with Wembanyama working on footwork and guard skills to complement his size. Olajuwon also imparted the advice that Wembanyama doesn't need to wait to win, that his talent can make his team successful right away.

  • Wembanyama met Olajuwon at the 2026 NCAA Final Four in San Antonio.
  • Wembanyama and Olajuwon held private training sessions over the summer.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs star and 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year who is having a breakout season and leading his team deep into the playoffs.

Hakeem Olajuwon

The legendary Houston Rockets center and two-time NBA champion who has mentored several star players, including Kobe Bryant and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

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What they’re saying

“Right away, he was very friendly, you know, and he told me right away that he wanted to share what he had, what he knew. All the footwork stuff, things that look easy but aren't, but he makes them easier, you know. And just some advice that comes with experience and nothing can replace experience.”

— Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Star

“Maybe it was actually advice, but it really stuck with me. That you don't need to wait to win, you know, like you can do it right away. If you're that good, you're going to make your team win regardless.”

— Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Star

What’s next

Wembanyama and the Spurs will face the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the NBA playoffs, where Wembanyama's offseason training will be put to the test.

The takeaway

Victor Wembanyama's holistic offseason regimen, which included training with NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon and engaging in Shaolin monk practices, highlights his dedication to continuous improvement and personal growth. This multifaceted approach could give the rising star an edge as he looks to cement his status as one of the NBA's elite players.