French star Victor Wembanyama, only 21 years old, will have to interrupt his first full season in the NBA after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. The San Antonio Spurs confirmed that the player will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, a piece of news that impacts not only the team but the entire league. The diagnosis was made shortly after the center returned from the All-Star Game in San Francisco, raising concerns about the severity of the condition and its implications for the athlete’s career. Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition involving the formation of blood clots in deep veins, usually affecting the lower limbs but also occurring in other parts of the body, such as the shoulder, as in Wembanyama’s case. The treatment requires the use of anticoagulants, which prevent participation in contact sports due to the high risk of internal bleeding.
Wembanyama’s absence is a major blow to the Spurs, who are already struggling this season. Currently, the team sits in 12th place in the Western Conference, with 23 wins and 29 losses. The French center’s absence could further hinder their chances of securing a playoff spot, significantly reducing their ability to make a late-season push.
Beyond the collective impact on the franchise, the injury also directly affects Wembanyama’s individual trajectory in the league. The player, who had been putting up impressive numbers, was a strong candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award. However, due to his absence, he will not reach the minimum of 65 games required for eligibility in the NBA’s end-of-season awards.
Breaking: Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the remainder of the season with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, the Spurs announced. pic.twitter.com/WnvCRd04qd
— ESPN (@espn) February 20, 2025
Statistics and performance before the injury
Wembanyama had been posting remarkable numbers in his rookie NBA season. In 46 games played, the center was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game. These numbers not only solidified him as one of the league’s top defenders but also showcased his offensive potential and versatility on the court.
One of his standout performances this season came in a game against the Washington Wizards in November, where Wembanyama set a personal record by scoring 50 points. That performance further raised expectations about his development in the NBA and confirmed his status as one of the most promising players in global basketball.
The severity of deep vein thrombosis in the shoulder
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition that can affect blood circulation and cause severe complications if the clot dislodges and travels to vital organs such as the lungs or brain. In Wembanyama’s case, the occurrence in the shoulder raises questions about the cause, which could be related to physical impact, excessive muscle use, or genetic predisposition.
Recovery from this type of injury can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the body’s response to treatment. The use of anticoagulants prevents participation in contact sports, as any trauma could lead to dangerous internal bleeding. This factor makes it impossible for the player to continue the season, as he will need to follow a strict medical protocol before returning to the court.
Impact on the San Antonio Spurs
Wembanyama’s absence is a significant setback for the Spurs, who had been relying on the young talent to lead the team through a rebuilding phase. With this injury, the team loses not only one of its top scorers but also one of the best rim protectors in the NBA, making defensive adjustments even more challenging.
Additionally, his departure could directly impact the franchise’s strategy for the coming years. The San Antonio Spurs had been adapting the roster to fit the French star’s playing style, and his absence might force tactical changes that could alter the team’s long-term plans.
Similar cases in the NBA
The NBA has seen cases of players dealing with blood clots before, and not all have managed to return to top form. The most notable example is Chris Bosh, whose career was cut short due to multiple clotting episodes. However, there are positive cases, such as Brandon Ingram, who, after proper treatment, was able to return to playing without major setbacks.
These examples show that while thrombosis is a serious condition, Wembanyama’s recovery will depend on precise medical treatment and close monitoring to ensure he returns at his best.
Possible alternatives for the Spurs
With the French star out, the San Antonio Spurs will have to seek alternatives to fill the gap left by Wembanyama. Some strategies that may be adopted include:
- Increasing playing time for young players: Players like Jeremy Sochan and Zach Collins may take on expanded roles in the rotation.
- Exploring reinforcements in the market: The franchise could look to acquire players who can help compensate for Wembanyama’s absence.
- Tactical adjustments: Coach Gregg Popovich may need to redesign the team’s strategy to cope without the center and explore new offensive and defensive options.
Fan and basketball world reaction
The news of Wembanyama’s injury has generated significant reaction among fans and basketball analysts. On social media, many supporters and fellow players have sent messages of encouragement to the athlete, wishing him a speedy and effective recovery. Many have expressed disappointment about his absence in the final stretch of the season, emphasizing his impact on the league and how much his growth was anticipated in the coming months.
The sports media has also widely covered the situation, discussing the injury’s impact not only on the Spurs but also on the NBA itself. The young athlete was already seen as one of the league’s future superstars, and his absence raises questions about his long-term health and how the team will handle his rehabilitation.
What to expect for next season
With no possibility of returning this season, attention now shifts to Wembanyama’s recovery and his performance in the next campaign. The center will have a period of rehabilitation and preparation to return to the court in his best physical condition.
The San Antonio Spurs will also need to reassess their strategy for the upcoming season, considering how to reintegrate their key player. How the team handles this situation could be crucial for the young star’s future and the franchise’s success in the following years.

French star Victor Wembanyama, only 21 years old, will have to interrupt his first full season in the NBA after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. The San Antonio Spurs confirmed that the player will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, a piece of news that impacts not only the team but the entire league. The diagnosis was made shortly after the center returned from the All-Star Game in San Francisco, raising concerns about the severity of the condition and its implications for the athlete’s career. Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition involving the formation of blood clots in deep veins, usually affecting the lower limbs but also occurring in other parts of the body, such as the shoulder, as in Wembanyama’s case. The treatment requires the use of anticoagulants, which prevent participation in contact sports due to the high risk of internal bleeding.
Wembanyama’s absence is a major blow to the Spurs, who are already struggling this season. Currently, the team sits in 12th place in the Western Conference, with 23 wins and 29 losses. The French center’s absence could further hinder their chances of securing a playoff spot, significantly reducing their ability to make a late-season push.
Beyond the collective impact on the franchise, the injury also directly affects Wembanyama’s individual trajectory in the league. The player, who had been putting up impressive numbers, was a strong candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award. However, due to his absence, he will not reach the minimum of 65 games required for eligibility in the NBA’s end-of-season awards.
Breaking: Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the remainder of the season with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, the Spurs announced. pic.twitter.com/WnvCRd04qd
— ESPN (@espn) February 20, 2025
Statistics and performance before the injury
Wembanyama had been posting remarkable numbers in his rookie NBA season. In 46 games played, the center was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game. These numbers not only solidified him as one of the league’s top defenders but also showcased his offensive potential and versatility on the court.
One of his standout performances this season came in a game against the Washington Wizards in November, where Wembanyama set a personal record by scoring 50 points. That performance further raised expectations about his development in the NBA and confirmed his status as one of the most promising players in global basketball.
The severity of deep vein thrombosis in the shoulder
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition that can affect blood circulation and cause severe complications if the clot dislodges and travels to vital organs such as the lungs or brain. In Wembanyama’s case, the occurrence in the shoulder raises questions about the cause, which could be related to physical impact, excessive muscle use, or genetic predisposition.
Recovery from this type of injury can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the body’s response to treatment. The use of anticoagulants prevents participation in contact sports, as any trauma could lead to dangerous internal bleeding. This factor makes it impossible for the player to continue the season, as he will need to follow a strict medical protocol before returning to the court.
Impact on the San Antonio Spurs
Wembanyama’s absence is a significant setback for the Spurs, who had been relying on the young talent to lead the team through a rebuilding phase. With this injury, the team loses not only one of its top scorers but also one of the best rim protectors in the NBA, making defensive adjustments even more challenging.
Additionally, his departure could directly impact the franchise’s strategy for the coming years. The San Antonio Spurs had been adapting the roster to fit the French star’s playing style, and his absence might force tactical changes that could alter the team’s long-term plans.
Similar cases in the NBA
The NBA has seen cases of players dealing with blood clots before, and not all have managed to return to top form. The most notable example is Chris Bosh, whose career was cut short due to multiple clotting episodes. However, there are positive cases, such as Brandon Ingram, who, after proper treatment, was able to return to playing without major setbacks.
These examples show that while thrombosis is a serious condition, Wembanyama’s recovery will depend on precise medical treatment and close monitoring to ensure he returns at his best.
Possible alternatives for the Spurs
With the French star out, the San Antonio Spurs will have to seek alternatives to fill the gap left by Wembanyama. Some strategies that may be adopted include:
- Increasing playing time for young players: Players like Jeremy Sochan and Zach Collins may take on expanded roles in the rotation.
- Exploring reinforcements in the market: The franchise could look to acquire players who can help compensate for Wembanyama’s absence.
- Tactical adjustments: Coach Gregg Popovich may need to redesign the team’s strategy to cope without the center and explore new offensive and defensive options.
Fan and basketball world reaction
The news of Wembanyama’s injury has generated significant reaction among fans and basketball analysts. On social media, many supporters and fellow players have sent messages of encouragement to the athlete, wishing him a speedy and effective recovery. Many have expressed disappointment about his absence in the final stretch of the season, emphasizing his impact on the league and how much his growth was anticipated in the coming months.
The sports media has also widely covered the situation, discussing the injury’s impact not only on the Spurs but also on the NBA itself. The young athlete was already seen as one of the league’s future superstars, and his absence raises questions about his long-term health and how the team will handle his rehabilitation.
What to expect for next season
With no possibility of returning this season, attention now shifts to Wembanyama’s recovery and his performance in the next campaign. The center will have a period of rehabilitation and preparation to return to the court in his best physical condition.
The San Antonio Spurs will also need to reassess their strategy for the upcoming season, considering how to reintegrate their key player. How the team handles this situation could be crucial for the young star’s future and the franchise’s success in the following years.
