Wembanyama backs French students protesting school conditions

Victor Wembanyama, the French-born San Antonio Spurs player, said he supports high school students in France who have been demonstrating against poor school conditions. Since late September, thousands have protested teacher shortages and deteriorating buildings, with arrests, injuries, and damaged schools reported. President Trump and other Republicans have blamed immigration for the unrest, while French officials have tried unsuccessfully to negotiate with the students.

Victor Wembanyama, a French-born San Antonio Spurs player, said at a Thursday news conference that he backs French high schoolers demonstrating about their schools. He called the issues entrenched structural inequities and welcomed young people raising their voices.

The demonstrations started in late September. Students have pointed to not enough teachers and poor facilities; coverage also notes arrests, injuries, and schools harmed or set on fire. French officials sought talks with students without success, while U.S. Republicans, including President Trump, have tied the unrest to immigration.