SAN ANTONIO (USA) - San Antonio Spurs and French national team star Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the remainder of the NBA season. He has been diagnosed a deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, the franchise announced Thursday.
The condition—a type of blood clot—was discovered after the NBA All-Star Game. Treatment typically involves blood-thinning medication, which prevents players from competing in contact sports like basketball.
The 21-year-old, who was named 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year and made his first All-Star appearance this year, was averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and a league-leading 3.8 blocks in 46 games for the 23-29 Spurs.
His absence makes him ineligible for All-NBA, Defensive Player of the Year, and other awards, as he will not meet the league’s 65-game minimum requirement.
"The French national team, which has already contacted the player’s entourage and the Spurs’ medical staff, sends its full support to Victor Wembanyama and wishes him a speedy recovery, hoping to see him back on the court soon and in full health", stated the French Federation.
"I know how much he loves playing and how difficult it will be for him to miss an extended period", added France General Manager Boris Diaw.
Victor Wembanyama was selected as the Paris 2024 Rising Star and named to the All-Star Five. Earlier in 2025, he stated that he wanted to play for France at EuroBasket 2025, if healthy. Every basketball fan expects him to be back on the court, in good shape, as soon as possible.
FIBA sends its best wishes to Victor for a full and swift recovery.
FIBA