On Thursday, Feb. 20, ESPN insider Shams Charania broke the shocking news that San Antonio Spurs All-Star Victor Wembanyama will miss the remainder of the season.
Following All-Star weekend, where Wemby and his teammate Stephon Castle delivered impressive performances, Wemby felt symptomatic and took some time to rest before the resumption of regular season games.
When his condition did not improve, he underwent testing, which resulted in his diagnosis.
Since this is an isolated condition, the Spurs believe that Wemby will fully recover and be ready to go at the start of next season.
Wemby was having an outstanding second season. Over 46 games, he averaged 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game. However, since he did not meet the 65-game requirement, he will be ineligible for end-of-season awards, such as Defensive Player of the Year— an award he was heavily favored to win.
What Now?
This couldn’t have come at a worse time, as the Spurs recently traded for De’Aaron Fox to team up with Wemby. They believed this new duo could help make a playoff push in the second half of the season. Unfortunately, it is now going to be much more difficult.
With the Spurs lacking size, they are now more likely to extend Bismack Biyombo, who is currently on his second 10-day contract, for the remainder of the season. Biyombo has been productive for the Spurs and even gave us his best Wemby impersonation.
Additionally, center Charles Bassey has recently returned from injury.
As the current favorite to win Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle should have more opportunities and a chance to lock up the award. Castle has struggled at times this season with making the right pass and turning the ball over. With the Spurs unlikely to get where they want this season, it’s a good time for Castle to develop and improve his game.
With Wemby out, the Spurs are not expected to win many games. It’s important to note that Fox has been playing with his pinky finger taped to his ring finger after dislocating it at training camp. With Wemby out, now might be a good opportunity for Fox to consider surgery if necessary.
San Antonio holds the Hawks’ first-round pick in this year’s draft, and with Atlanta struggling, that’s great news for San Antonio. They also hold their own pick, giving them two valuable selections. With the Spurs unlikely to make the postseason, now might be the perfect time to let Fox sit out the rest of the season and tank for a better pick.
Popovich Update
Not only is Wemby not coming back this season, but the Spurs will also go the rest of the season without Gregg Popovich, who has been away from the team since November. Mitch Johnson will remain as the head coach.
Next season, the Spurs should come ready to contend in the playoffs and possibly for a championship. They should have a fully recovered Wemby and a ready-to-go Fox. They will also have a top player from the 2025 draft and an improved young core.
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