Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on January 31, 2025 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images/AFP 

In a significant setback for the San Antonio Spurs, All-Star center Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the remainder of the 2024-2025 NBA season due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder. 

The diagnosis, announced today, reveals a blood clot condition that requires immediate treatment, effectively sidelining him for the rest of the season.

Wembanyama’s Stellar Season Cut Short

Wembanyama, the 7-foot-3 French phenom and No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has been nothing short of dominant in his second NBA season. The first-time All-Star was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks (leading the NBA), and 3.7 assists

His defensive impact had positioned him as a leading contender for Defensive Player of the Year before this unfortunate medical issue.

Spurs’ Outlook: Recent Additions Show Promise

The Spurs (23-29, 12th in the West) now face an uphill battle for a playoff push without their franchise cornerstone. However, the team has recently bolstered its roster with moves that show a bright future by adding De’Aaron Fox from the Sacramento Kings in a blockbuster trade. 

The electrifying point guard is averaging 21.6 points, 7.8 assists, and 1.8 steals since joining San Antonio and is expected to be a key piece in Wembanyama’s return next season. Rookie Standout Stephon Castle, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft has already shown star potential. He recently set a Spurs rookie record with a 33-point performance off the bench against the Charlotte Hornets.

While losing Wembanyama is a major blow, the Spurs’ front office remains optimistic about the team’s long-term outlook. With Fox running the offense, Castle emerging as a reliable scorer, and Wembanyama expected to make a full recovery, the future in San Antonio looks promising.

For now, the focus will be on Wembanyama’s health, ensuring the Spurs’ young superstar returns stronger for the 2025-26 season.