Victor Wembanyama, the 20-year-old NBA sensation from France, standing at an impressive 7-4, and Brandon Sanderson, a stocky 48-year-old fantasy author from Nebraska, may seem worlds apart physically. However, their shared love for fantasy books has bridged the gap, revealing an unexpected common ground.
Wembanyama’s Literary Escape
For Victor Wembanyama, the basketball court is not the only arena where he dazzles. A voracious reader, he embraces fantasy books as a means to escape the pressures of reality. Regardless of his busy schedule, Wembanyama can be found engrossed in fantasy novels on planes, before games, and even on the trainer’s table. Classics like J.R.R. Tolkien’s works have been his companions since childhood, but it was Sanderson’s books that captured his imagination about 15 months ago.
Sanderson’s Delightful Discovery
Sanderson, a literary giant in the fantasy world, was pleasantly surprised to learn about Wembanyama’s avid reading habits. The author, known for creating intricate and immersive worlds in his books, expressed excitement at the crossover between professional athletes and fans of his work. He believes breaking away from the stereotype that separates sports enthusiasts from book lovers is refreshing.
Mutual Respect and Inspiration
Wembanyama appreciates Sanderson’s ability to provide him with mental breaks from the intense pressures of his basketball career, noting that the author embodies everything he seeks in a good read. Sanderson, in turn, considers Wembanyama’s passion for reading as a positive force breaking down barriers. He even envisions the NBA player fitting well into one of his book series.
A Triple-Double Fueled by Fantasy
The influence of Sanderson’s words on Victor Wembanyama performance is evident. Recently, Wembanyama strategically paused reading Words of Radiance, a massive 1,087-page tome, to save its climax for game day. The result? A career-defining triple-double—16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists—in a victorious game against the Pistons.
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
Both legends in their respective fields share a mutual respect. Wembanyama admires the depth of Sanderson’s worlds, while Sanderson appreciates the impact of a basketball star loving literature. The duo champions the idea that individuals can embrace diverse passions without conforming to societal stereotypes.
In the union of basketball and fantasy literature, Wembanyama and Sanderson illustrate the beauty of breaking down barriers and celebrating the rich tapestry of human interests. Love what you love, they say, and let passions intertwine without restriction.
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