Local Businessman Keeps Exciting Secret About Spurs Star
For just over two weeks, local entrepreneur Victor Nava had to keep a thrilling secret: Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama was set to visit his sports card and memorabilia shop in San Antonio.
Nava, owner of Boomtown Sports Cards and Collectibles, hosted an annual Topps Hobby Rip night on Saturday, where around 70 kids gathered. They were informed that a special guest would be attending, but Wembanyama’s appearance was kept under wraps as a surprise.
When Wembanyama finally arrived at Nava’s shop, his towering 7-foot-3 frame elicited a raucous reaction from the crowd. Fans immediately started chanting “Wemby!” and one young admirer captured the sentiment of many when he told Wembanyama, “You’re my favorite basketball player.”
Saturday’s event showcased that the excitement around Wembanyama remains high as he approaches his second NBA season. The appearance was part of a promotional event linked to Wembanyama’s sponsorship with Fanatics, the company behind Topps sports cards. Similar events featured other sports stars like Tom Brady and Mike Trout globally.
Boomtown was one of 572 participating stores worldwide but was unique in hosting the reigning NBA Rookie of the Year. Nava, who only learned of Wembanyama’s visit two weeks prior, struggled to keep the news confidential.
Saturday marked Wembanyama’s debut visit to a sports card shop. Recently, he has developed an interest in collecting cards, with a particular fondness for Star Wars cards. “I’m starting to have a little collection,” he said, adding that he also has cards of himself.
During his 25-minute visit, Wembanyama interacted with the kids, exchanging cards and playing games. Eleven-year-old Robert Sisler, a dedicated Boomtown customer, expressed his amazement, stating, “My jaw was on the floor” after meeting his hero. Wembanyama was equally impressed when he saw one of his rare, autographed cards valued in the five figures.
The excitement of the event was captured in a tweet where one young fan exclaimed, “I’m never washing this hand,” highlighting the unforgettable experience of meeting Wembanyama.
For Nava, witnessing the joy on the children’s faces made the secret-keeping worth it. “The look on the kids’ faces is the reason why I wake up in the morning and love coming here,” he shared.
