The season for San Antonio’s standout player, Victor Wembanyama, has been cut short due to a recent diagnosis of a blood clot in his right shoulder. This condition not only sidelines one of the brightest talents in the NBA but also marks a significant health setback for the Spurs following their coach Gregg Popovich’s stroke months ago.

Immediate treatment plans for Wembanyama are underway, as the team is optimistic he will make a full recovery. An individual knowledgeable about the situation, speaking on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that it may still be possible for Wembanyama—a leading shot-blocker in the league and a first-time All-Star—to participate in this summer’s European Championships for France.

“You can’t replace Vic,” commented Spurs guard Chris Paul, adding that Wembanyama’s unique presence and charisma are irreplaceable assets to the team, beyond his on-court skills.

The injury, classified as deep vein thrombosis, was identified this week after Wembanyama returned from the All-Star Game. This condition is generally addressed with blood-thinning medication, and further evaluations will be conducted. Acting Spurs coach Mitch Johnson explained that Wembanyama had communicated to the medical staff that something felt off with his arm, prompting further investigation. Johnson reassured that, while Wembanyama is out for the remainder of this season, long-term health prospects look positive.

This diagnosis comes just a few months after the Spurs’ head coach, Gregg Popovich, experienced a stroke. Johnson, who has been stepping in as acting coach during Popovich’s recovery, noted the organization is grappling with these concurrent challenges. “It’s been extremely tough, to say the least,” Paul said, highlighting the weight of the circumstances affecting both players and coaching staff.

Wembanyama’s record this season has been remarkable. He claimed the Rookie of the Year title last season and is viewed as a frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year award this season. By the All-Star break, he had already attempted over 400 three-pointers and recorded 176 blocked shots—unprecedented figures in NBA history. He is currently averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists, stats that align him with the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar from the 1975-76 season. The Spurs were set to resume play later against the Phoenix Suns in Austin, Texas.

“It’s certainly devastating news, as the league loses a player of this caliber, and that’s tough,” Johnson remarked, underlining the impact Wembanyama has on fans and the overall game. Heat forward Kevin Love expressed deep concern upon learning about Wembanyama’s situation, emphasizing the importance of having him in the league. “He means so much, not just to the league but also to the competitive spirit of the game,” Love stated.

The incident is reminiscent of past instances affecting other players, such as the Hall of Famer Chris Bosh, who had his career end due to blood clots, and Brandon Ingram, who faced a similar season-ending issue during his time with the Lakers. The Spurs’ medical team will now focus on understanding the cause behind Wembanyama’s diagnosis.

Dr. Geoffrey Barnes, a cardiologist and vascular medicine associate professor, noted the significance of identifying the reasons behind upper extremity blood clots, as this information will guide treatment options and inform potential long-term consequences.

Nonetheless, many athletes have successfully returned from blood clot issues even stronger than before. Serena Williams, for example, dealt with a pulmonary embolism in 2011 and regained her status as the dominating force in women’s tennis.

Wembanyama, who was the overall No. 1 pick in the 2023 NBA draft, has rapidly become regarded as one of the most promising emerging talents in basketball. Additionally, he helped lead France to a silver medal at the previous year’s Paris Olympics. Paul has reached out to Wembanyama since the diagnosis but chose not to disclose specific details of their conversation, recognizing the collective concern for their teammate’s health. “It’s tough, more than anything, for all of us,” Paul reflected, emphasizing the significance of Wembanyama’s role within the team and the sport.