San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was defeated in a game of chess by a six-and-a-half-year-old boy named Adam during the second annual “Hoop Gambit” event held on August 8, 2026, according to a report by Le Parisien. The gathering, which combines basketball tournaments and chess matches, took place at the Pierre-Curvat gymnasium in Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, Wembanyama’s hometown.
The Hoop Gambit Event in Le Chesnay and Nanterre
Organized by Wembanyama and his staff, the two-day event drew approximately 400 participants, including roughly 100 chess players, after registration slots filled in under 24 hours. Following the opening day in Le Chesnay, the event moved to Nanterre on August 9, 2026, utilizing the Paul-Vaillant-Couturier gymnasium where Wembanyama previously inaugurated a new basketball playground on July 30, 2026. According to Le Parisien, the event offered free admission and featured youth competitions alongside appearances by professional basketball players and chess experts such as Julien Song.
Reflections on the Chess Defeat
Addressing his loss to young Adam, Wembanyama noted that he holds a 1,000 rating on his chess application but acknowledged that his opponent played better. He emphasized that chess helps stimulate his mind in an enjoyable way while expressing satisfaction in bringing people together through the event.
Upcoming National Team Schedule
Wembanyama concluded his summer break in France before transitioning back to professional competition with the French national team. According to Le Parisien, Les Bleus are scheduled to face Serbia on August 20, 2026, in Belgrade, followed by a rematch in Orléans on August 23, 2026. The team will then begin 2027 FIBA World Cup qualification matches, playing Slovenia at Accor Arena in Bercy on August 27, 2026, and Sweden on August 30, 2026.
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