The NBA might be the highest level of basketball competition on the planet, but there’s no question that the most intimidating basketball environments anywhere can be found in a handful of European countries that are becoming more and more known for producing NBA talent.
Between shooting off flares, engaging in deafening and synchronized chanting, and providing one of the more generally insane sporting environments you can think of, fans in countries like Serbia, Turkey, and France have become synonymous with pure passion for the sport and whichever club they root for.
Feb 14, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; A fan holds up a sign for San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) as he warms up before the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
With extensive experience playing in raucous European environments during his youth and teenage years in the French and EuroLeagues, San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is leading the charge to create a consistent team of “superfans” who will show up and create a similar atmosphere at Spurs games this season and beyond. Wembanyama is even hosting tryouts for the squad.
You think you’ve got what it takes to bring the energy ?! @spurs fans this is your shot to be part of something special ! Tryouts for OUR new fan section Sunday September 14, registration from 7-9am at Frost Bank Center. pic.twitter.com/yetgxdVfpa
— Wemby (@wemby) September 9, 2025
In an article published by the Associated Press on Tuesday, more details about the special fan club were revealed.
“In short, Wembanyama and the Spurs are looking for some high-energy fans who can commit to attending at least 75% of the team’s home games this season, plus are willing to “participate in chants and rituals” all while supporting “with passion and respect.” There’s a $999 membership cost to be in the new club, and it comes with some privileges such as discounts and the chance to meet surprise special guests,” AP wrote.
Victor Wembanyama convinced the San Antonio Spurs to hold tryouts for a fan section, per @espn
“It will be modeled after what he’s seen from soccer and basketball teams in Europe and around the world. The section of fans will feature nonstop chants, drums, flags, and passion.” pic.twitter.com/ZSF2BaqNgC
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) September 10, 2025
Wembanyama provided a brief comment for the story, which he believes will create a legitimate on-court advantage for the Spurs in the coming seasons if things go according to plan.
“If this group of ultras reaches its full potential, I have no doubt that it’s going to help us win games in the future for sure,” Wembanyama said. “I mean, the 41 regular-season games at home this season, that’s 41 opportunities for them to push in the fourth quarter and give us that extra energy and that second wind that can give us the win.”
Mar 4, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) looks over in the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images / Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Wembanyama and the Spurs are set to open the season with two consecutive road games, but they’ll make their debut at home on Oct. 26 against the Brooklyn Nets.
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