Victor Wembanyama Makes History with All-NBA First Team Selection

Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ towering center, has been named to the 2025-26 NBA All-NBA First Team, marking a historic achievement for the French basketball star. The announcement, made on May 24, 2026, recognizes Wembanyama’s dominance on both ends of the court and solidifies his status as one of the league’s elite players.

A Breakthrough Season for Wembanyama

Wembanyama’s selection to the All-NBA First Team follows a standout third season in the NBA. The 22-year-old center, already a two-time NBA All-Star and 2026 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, led the league in blocks for the third consecutive season. His combination of height, agility, and basketball IQ has redefined the center position, earning him widespread acclaim.

Wembanyama’s achievement is particularly significant as he becomes the first Spurs player to earn All-NBA First Team honors since Kawhi Leonard in the 2016-17 season. His selection also highlights his rapid ascent in the league, having been named the 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year and making his first All-NBA team in just his third season.

Historic Recognition for a French Star

While the French media has emphasized Wembanyama’s status as the first French player to join the All-NBA First Team since Joakim Noah in 2014, this specific detail is not explicitly confirmed in primary sources. Nonetheless, Wembanyama’s selection underscores his growing influence on the global basketball stage. His success has drawn comparisons to legendary centers, with analysts praising his unique skill set and work ethic.

All-NBA First Team Roster

The 2025-26 All-NBA First Team includes Wembanyama alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets), Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers), and Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons). All five players were recognized for their exceptional performances, with Jokić and Gilgeous-Alexander earning unanimous selections.

The roster reflects a blend of veterans and emerging stars, with Wembanyama representing the next generation of NBA superstars. His inclusion alongside Jokić, a five-time MVP, and Dončić, a three-time All-NBA selection, highlights his rapid integration into the league’s upper echelon.

Impact on the Spurs and the NBA

Wembanyama’s All-NBA honor is a testament to his impact on the Spurs’ revival. The franchise, which has struggled in recent years, has seen a resurgence with Wembanyama’s leadership. His defensive prowess and ability to score from multiple areas of the court have made him a cornerstone of the team’s rebuild.

The selection also signals a generational shift in the NBA, with younger players like Wembanyama, Dončić, and Cunningham shaping the league’s future. As the 2026 season concludes, Wembanyama’s achievements position him as a key figure in the ongoing evolution of basketball’s global landscape.

Learn more about Victor Wembanyama on Wikipedia

Read the ESPN coverage of the All-NBA selections