Victor Wembanyama has quickly become one of the most exciting players in the NBA. The San Antonio Spurs star dazzles fans with his shot-blocking ability, athleticism, and seemingly limitless potential. But while basketball may be what made him famous, another passion has quietly earned him admiration from book lovers everywhere.
Wembanyama is a reader.
Not the kind of reader who picks up a book for appearances or snaps a photo with a bestseller before moving on to the next distraction. By all accounts, Wembanyama is a genuine bookworm who devours novels whenever he gets the chance. Whether he is traveling with the Spurs, preparing for a game, or simply enjoying downtime, there is a good chance he has a book nearby.
His love of reading has become so well known in San Antonio that the San Antonio Public Library recently launched a special display inspired by his reading habits.
Called “Read Like Wemby,” the display at Central Library highlights many of the science fiction and fantasy books that have captured the attention of the NBA superstar. For readers looking to explore the same stories that Wembanyama enjoys, it is an excellent place to start.
The “Read Like Wemby” Display at Central Library
Libraries are always looking for creative ways to encourage reading, and San Antonio Public Library found a perfect ambassador in Victor Wembanyama.
The new “Read Like Wemby” display at Central Library showcases books connected to the Spurs star’s favorite genres and authors. The collection focuses heavily on science fiction and fantasy, two genres Wembanyama has openly discussed enjoying over the years.
It is a fun idea that bridges sports and literature in a way that benefits everyone. Basketball fans may discover new books, while readers who already love fantasy and science fiction gain another reason to appreciate one of the NBA’s brightest young stars.
Even better, many of the featured books are available in multiple formats. Readers can check them out in print, download them as eBooks, or listen to them as audiobooks through Libby.
In an age where reading often competes with social media and streaming services for attention, seeing a public library celebrate a professional athlete’s love of books is genuinely refreshing.
Brandon Sanderson: Wembanyama’s Favorite Author
When discussing Victor Wembanyama’s reading habits, one name consistently rises to the top.
The bestselling fantasy author has become one of the most influential voices in modern fantasy literature. Known for creating intricate magic systems, expansive worlds, and memorable characters, Sanderson has built an enormous global following.
Wembanyama has openly stated that Sanderson is one of his favorite authors.
For readers unfamiliar with Sanderson’s work, the Mistborn series is often considered the ideal starting point. The novels combine political intrigue, rebellion, action, and one of the most original magic systems in fantasy.
Sanderson’s larger Cosmere universe has become one of the most ambitious projects in modern publishing, with interconnected stories spanning numerous books and series.
Given Wembanyama’s love for massive fantasy novels, it is easy to understand why Sanderson’s books would appeal to him.
Perhaps the coolest part of this story is that Wembanyama eventually got the chance to meet his literary hero.
In 2024, while visiting Utah for a game against the Jazz, Wembanyama met Sanderson in person. The encounter was a dream meeting for both sports and fantasy fans. Sanderson received one of Wembanyama’s game jerseys, while Wembanyama received a signed copy of one of Sanderson’s books.
It is not every day that a superstar athlete gets to meet one of his favorite authors.
Robert Jordan and The Eye of the World
Another major title featured in the “Read Like Wemby” display is The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan.
Fantasy fans know this novel as the first book in The Wheel of Time, one of the most influential fantasy series ever written.
Published in 1990, The Eye of the World introduced readers to a richly detailed world filled with magic, prophecy, political intrigue, and unforgettable characters.
The series eventually expanded into fourteen main novels and remains a cornerstone of epic fantasy literature.
For readers who enjoy long, immersive adventures, The Wheel of Time offers thousands of pages of storytelling.
Considering that teammates have joked about the enormous size of the books Wembanyama carries around, Jordan’s work seems like a natural fit.
Dune: A Science Fiction Masterpiece
No science fiction reading list feels complete without Dune.
The “Read Like Wemby” display includes several Dune novels by Brian Herbert, continuing the legacy of the iconic universe originally created by Frank Herbert.
Few books have had a greater impact on science fiction than Dune.
The series explores politics, religion, ecology, power, and destiny while telling the story of Paul Atreides and the desert planet Arrakis.
Its influence can be seen throughout modern science fiction, inspiring everything from novels and films to television shows and video games.
For readers interested in ambitious storytelling and world-building, Dune remains essential reading.
Terry Pratchett’s Unique Brand of Fantasy
Not all fantasy novels are dark and serious.
Terry Pratchett built a legendary career by combining fantasy with humor, satire, and sharp social commentary.
Several of Pratchett’s works are featured in the library display, introducing readers to the beloved Discworld series.
Pratchett’s novels are known for being both hilarious and surprisingly insightful. His books explore everything from politics and religion to bureaucracy and human nature while maintaining a sense of fun throughout.
For readers who want fantasy that is clever, entertaining, and often laugh-out-loud funny, Pratchett is difficult to beat.
Stephen King’s The Outsider
While fantasy and science fiction dominate Wembanyama’s reading list, there are a few surprises as well.
One notable inclusion is Stephen King’s The Outsider.
Part crime thriller, part horror novel, The Outsider begins with what appears to be a straightforward murder investigation before evolving into something far stranger and more unsettling.
King remains one of the most popular authors in the world, and this novel showcases his ability to blend genres seamlessly.
For readers looking to branch out from fantasy while still enjoying supernatural elements, The Outsider is a strong choice.
Why Wembanyama’s Reading Habit Matters
It may seem unusual that a professional athlete’s bookshelf is attracting so much attention.
But there is something genuinely inspiring about seeing one of the NBA’s biggest stars embrace reading so enthusiastically.
Wembanyama has spoken about reading since childhood. According to him, he started reading before elementary school and maintained the habit throughout much of his life.
Even after becoming an international basketball sensation, he continues to make time for books.
In many ways, his reading habits challenge outdated stereotypes about athletes. They remind people that elite competitors can be intellectually curious, thoughtful, and passionate about literature.
His example may also encourage younger fans to pick up a book themselves.
If one of the busiest athletes on the planet can find time to read epic fantasy novels while traveling across the country, perhaps the rest of us can find a little time as well.
Where to Start If You Want to Read Like Wemby
If the “Read Like Wemby” display inspires you to explore some of Victor Wembanyama’s favorite books, here are a few excellent starting points:
Beginner Fantasy
Classic Science Fiction
Humorous Fantasy
Horror and Suspense
Each of these books showcases a different aspect of the genres Wembanyama enjoys most.
Final Thoughts
Victor Wembanyama’s basketball career is only beginning, but his reputation as one of the NBA’s most enthusiastic readers is already well established.
From Brandon Sanderson and Robert Jordan to Dune, Terry Pratchett, and Stephen King, his reading list is packed with some of the most respected names in fantasy and science fiction.
The new “Read Like Wemby” display at San Antonio Public Library’s Central Library is a wonderful celebration of that passion. It gives fans a chance to explore the same books that have captivated one of basketball’s brightest young stars and serves as a reminder that reading remains one of the most rewarding hobbies anyone can pursue.
Whether you’re a Spurs fan, a fantasy enthusiast, or simply someone searching for your next great read, Victor Wembanyama’s bookshelf is an excellent place to begin.
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