Victor Wembanyama is set to make his return to action after being sidelined due to a blood clot in his shoulder. The San Antonio Spurs’ star center confirmed that he has fully recovered and received medical clearance to resume basketball activities. After missing the latter half of the 2024-25 season, Wembanyama is eager to rejoin his team for the upcoming campaign.
The setback occurred in February, shortly after Wembanyama participated in All-Star Weekend. Upon returning, team doctors discovered he was suffering from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder—a serious condition involving a blood clot that can lead to complications if untreated. The Spurs made the decision to shut him down for the remainder of the season as a precaution, focusing on his long-term health and recovery.
Before the injury, Wembanyama had been delivering a dominant sophomore season. He averaged 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and led the NBA in blocks per game with 3.8. His defensive impact was unmatched, and he was widely considered the front-runner for Defensive Player of the Year honors. His presence in the paint altered opposing teams’ offensive strategies, and his offensive game continued to evolve with confidence and skill.
Now at 21 years old, Wembanyama’s return signals a major boost to San Antonio’s ambitions. Despite finishing the previous season with a 34-48 record, the Spurs are building a formidable young core. The front office made key moves to bolster the roster in both talent and depth.
At the trade deadline last season, the Spurs acquired dynamic guard De’Aaron Fox to bring veteran leadership and elite speed to the backcourt. They also drafted Dylan Harper with the second overall pick—an explosive guard with scoring instincts and playmaking ability. Joining them is Stephon Castle, the reigning Rookie of the Year, who impressed with his composure, versatility, and court vision.
The team’s frontcourt depth has been significantly reinforced. Alongside Wembanyama, San Antonio now features experienced bigs like Luke Kornet and Kelly Olynyk—both known for their basketball IQ and ability to stretch the floor. Olynyk, in particular, adds veteran toughness and passing from the high post, giving the Spurs more lineup flexibility.
Devin Vassell continues to provide two-way reliability as a forward, offering perimeter shooting and solid defensive presence. Additionally, the Spurs selected Carter Bryant with the 14th overall pick in this year’s draft, adding yet another promising young talent to the rotation.
With a healthy Wembanyama back anchoring the defense and expanding his offensive arsenal, the Spurs are poised to compete more seriously in the Western Conference. Their roster now boasts a blend of youth, athleticism, and experience—ingredients necessary for a deep playoff run.
San Antonio’s patience and strategic team-building appear to be paying off. The return of their franchise cornerstone could be the spark that elevates the Spurs from a rebuilding team to a rising powerhouse.
