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Traded 10 Minutes Before the Deadline, Victor Wembanyama’s 28YO Spurs Teammate Shares Betrayal From $1.6 Billion NBA Franchise: “I’m Playing Call of Duty…”

Published 08/02/2023, 8:03 AM EDT

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Victor Wembanyama‘s 28-year-old San Antonio Spurs teammate appeared on the sports podcast Tidal League. In a candid revelation on the podcast Tidal League, the 28-year-old star opened up about the shocking betrayal he experienced at the NBA trade deadline. Just 10 minutes before the deadline, the former Pelicans guard received a call informing him of a trade; leaving him feeling blindsided and betrayed by the $1.6 billion NBA franchise.

The emotional rollercoaster he went through during this time sheds light on the complexities of player trades in the ever-evolving world of professional basketball. Following NBA legend Magic Johnson’s high praise for the 19-year-old French prodigy, his teammate reveals his own struggle early on.

A heartbreaking betrayal on the trade deadline

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Wembanyama’s teammate Devonte’ Graham recounts the moment he received the news of the trade, just minutes before the deadline. The sudden news played with his emotions, giving the impression that the franchise was toying with him. Graham’s genuine surprise and frustration were evident as he expressed his disbelief at the unexpected turn of events. The unexpected trade took a toll on him, as he never anticipated such a change. “I got traded; the deadline was at 2:15, [They] call me at 2:05,” Graham said. 

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The host added, “They’d be playing with people’s emotions”.

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Graham in agreement went further and said, “Right, I’m playing Call of Duty [When he got the news].” 

Graham’s experience with the unexpected trade is a powerful reminder of the emotional toll that player transfers can have in the NBA. The swift and unforeseen nature of the trade deadline decisions highlights the uncertainty and complexities players face in the league. “I’m like I’m not getting traded. There’s no way.” And when his agent informed him, “Oh, they’re going to move you to San Antonio, and I’m like, Da*n! I already settled down so, I ain’t getting traded,” Graham added.

On the Tidal League podcast, his candid account offers a glimpse into the human side of professional basketball.

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Victor Wembanyama’s teammate coping with the aftermath

The news further compounded Graham’s feelings of shock and disappointment, as he had already settled down in his previous team and city. The unexpected move to San Antonio disrupted his sense of stability, requiring him to adjust quickly to changes on and off the court. Despite the initial challenges, Graham’s determination and professionalism shone through as he embraced his role to make an impact.

While the trade may have been a shocking and challenging moment for him, it also underscores his resilience and determination to adapt to new circumstances and continue making his mark in the NBA. As he settles into the San Antonio Spurs, his journey reflects the dynamic and competitive landscape of professional basketball. Wembanyama and Graham haven’t played together yet, but they will be a pairing to watch out for.

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How would you rate Devonte’ Graham’s trade to the Spurs? Share your views in the comments below!

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Written by:

Almas Saad

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Mohammad Almas Saad is an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports. Almas has over four years of experience writing about the sport he loves. He began right after college and has composed more than 500 stories.
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Edited by:

Saumya Khanduja