The San Antonio Spurs have announced that center Victor Wembanyama will be sidelined for the 2024-25 season due to a diagnosis of a blood clot in his right shoulder.
The announcement arrives just before the San Antonio Spurs are set to host the Phoenix Suns, marking the beginning of the post-All-Star Break segment of their schedule. This development presents a significant challenge for the Spurs, who are in the hunt for a playoff position in the Western Conference. Additionally, it represents the second substantial setback for the team this season, following Coach Gregg Popovich’s stroke in November, which has kept him from coaching.
Wembanyama has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis following his return from the All-Star Game, as reported by the Spurs. This condition is typically managed with blood-thinning medication, which generally prevents athletes from participating in contact sports like basketball.
Athletes participating in contact sports are generally advised to refrain from using such medication due to an increased risk of bleeding.
The Spurs are hopeful regarding Wembanyama’s long-term health and anticipate his recovery in time for the next season. The reigning Kia Rookie of the Year, Wembanyama had an impressive performance during the 2023-24 season, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.6 blocks per game over 71 games with the Spurs.
Victor Wembanyama is emerging as a strong candidate for the Kia Defensive Player of the Year award. He currently leads the NBA in blocked shots with an average of 3.8 per game, while also contributing 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. This season, he has attempted 403 three-pointers and recorded 176 blocks. Remarkably, no player in NBA history has achieved these statistical milestones by the All-Star break, yet Wembanyama has accomplished this feat this season.
Wembanyama made his inaugural All-Star appearance last weekend, participating in the Kia Skills Challenge as well as the All-Star Game.
Wembanyama concluded his All-Star debut with six points and four rebounds, contributing to Chuck’s Global Stars’ victory over Kenny’s Young Stars. He later recorded 11 points and three rebounds in a 41-25 loss to Shaq’s OGs in the tournament final. This loss represents a significant setback for the Spurs, who are competing for a playoff position in the Western Conference.
Instances of this nature have previously impacted NBA players, including the now-retired Hall of Famer Chris Bosh, whose career was prematurely concluded due to a diagnosis of blood clots.
Several athletes have successfully returned to their sport, often achieving even greater performance, after experiencing blood clots.
In 2011, Serena Williams was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism, which is a clot in the lung. Upon her return, she reclaimed her position as the dominant player in women’s tennis.
Wembanyama is recognized as one of the most promising young talents in the sport. His return will be welcomed with enthusiasm by the entire NBA community.
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