As for Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs rookie, he is recovering nicely and impressively. He is recovering from deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, an injury that had already ended his season. After feeling concern on a trip after the All-Star weekend, Wembanyama was subject to thorough medical tests that identified his condition. Although the specifics of the diagnosis remain undisclosed, Wembanyama expressed optimism about his long-term health and the future of his career.
The young center also divulged that he has yet to be cleared for contact. He’s begun some very light weightlifting, and he’s been able to do work on the court, with controlled settings. He reiterated his commitment to getting back to full strength in advance of next year’s training camp. Wembanyama stated, “Looking back, I’m really lucky. This happened. All of us, we deal with what we get. I’m still in the 1% luckiest people. I’ve got nothing to complain about.”
Wembanyama even said he faced “huge” obstacles throughout the season. He noted, “At the time, I definitely didn’t know [the extent of the condition]. Looking back, I did feel a certain way. I wasn’t in the best shape ever at the All-Star Game.” Most importantly, he understood that recovery is a long process and you have to let it take its course. “We’re taking our time and I’m neither late nor early [in recovery], but it’s a process and there are definitely steps for me to reach,” he added.
Wembanyama is poised to be the runaway winner of the 2024-25 season as the NBA’s blocked shots leader. His injury now takes him out of consideration for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award as he will not reach the league’s minimum games played threshold. Despite that, he still wants to prove his growth and potential and is looking forward to his career with Spurs.
Wembanyama further focused on his fellow draft picks including giving hand to Stephon Castle for adjusting and progressing in the league. To that end, he mentioned how he and De’Aaron Fox only played five games together this year. He is positive about the opportunity to develop chemistry with him going forward. “I’m looking forward to being part of a new Big Three in San Antonio alongside Fox and Castle,” he said.
The Spurs front office seems encouragingly on board with the long game of Wembanyama’s rehab process. Mitch Johnson, a longtime member of the Spurs’ medical staff, underscored their confidence in the player — he will be ready for camp next year. Everything has been great so far,” he stated. I realize that’s not exciting breaking news, but it is encouraging news. Johnson stressed that the messaging around Wembanyama’s comeback has been clear, keeping everyone informed that the highly touted young star is progressing as desired.
De’Aaron Fox expressed confidence in their potential as a trio, stating, “We want to be the best pick and roll combo in the league.” He specifically noted their ability to drive and score in transition, emphasizing their collective aspiration to generate open shots together on the court. Fox acknowledged their youth but believes they are ready to compete at a high level: “If you can open that window for as long as you possibly can, that’s always the goal.”
As Wembanyama goes through the last stages of his rehabilitation process, he works harder than ever on stepping his game up. I’m starving and I’ll be there,” he said. He’s confident in the team and coaching staff. They love him and are just trying to make him best as he prepares for a great future in the silver & black (with the Spurs).
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