Pop star Britney Spears and NBA rookie Victor Wembanyama have presented conflicting narratives regarding an incident in Las Vegas. Spears claims she was "backhanded" by Wembanyama's security after tapping him on the shoulder at a restaurant. She alleges that she merely wanted to congratulate him on his recent success. However, Wembanyama asserts that Spears grabbed him from behind, and his security reacted by pushing her away. He maintains that he didn't see the full interaction as he continued walking.
Singer Britney Spears attends the announcement of her new residency, Britney: Domination, at Park MGM Oct. 18, 2018, in Las Vegas. (Gabe Ginsberg/FilmMagic)
Spears expressed embarrassment over the situation but emphasized the importance of treating everyone respectfully, particularly those in the public eye. She has yet to receive a public apology from Wembanyama, his security team, or the Spurs organization.
Split image of Victor Wembanyama speaking to the media during the 2023 NBA Draft June 22, 2023, and Britney Spears attending the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards. (Mike Lawrence/ Anthony Harvey/Getty Images)
Wembanyama, the top pick in the 2023 NBA draft, stated that he was unaware it was Spears at the time of the incident. He was in Las Vegas preparing for his Summer League debut.
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs during practice June 30, 2023, at the AT&T Center in San Antonio. (Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)
TMZ initially reported the incident, and subsequent reports suggest security footage shows Smith pushing Spears’ hand away, leading to her hand hitting her own face. Spears’ husband, Sam Asghari, condemned the incident, criticizing the security guard's actions and calling for systemic change within the sports and entertainment industry to better protect women. He emphasized that self-defense is sometimes necessary, but defending his wife is non-negotiable.
Britney Spears and Sam Asghari arrive at the premiere of Sony Pictures' "One Upon A Time...In Hollywood" at the Chinese Theatre July 22, 2019, in Hollywood, Calif. (Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Victor Wembanyama addresses the media June 24, 2023, at AT&T Center in San Antonio. (Caitlin Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed they responded to a battery investigation related to the incident. The Associated Press reported that Spears filed a police report.
