Spurs Announce Victor Wembanyama News on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 5, 2026 3:22 PM ET

The San Antonio Spurs have emerged as a legitimate threat in the Western Conference, with the potential to make a deep run to the NBA Finals.

While the team boasts elite depth and one of the most balanced roster constructions in the league, much of its success stems from the presence of center Victor Wembanyama, an unstoppable force on both ends of the floor.

The 22-year-old big man has already solidified himself as the best defensive player in the NBA, altering shots with ease and anchoring the Spurs’ interior. His offensive production has also taken a significant leap forward, placing him firmly in the MVP conversation.

Through his first 21 games of the season, Wembanyama has averaged 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.9 blocks while shooting 52.5% from the field and 36.5% from 3-point range. Even more impressive, he has produced at this level while playing under a minutes restriction.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1)Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

That restriction, however, highlights a lingering concern. Wembanyama has already dealt with multiple injuries this season, including a left calf strain that sidelined him for nearly a month.

More recently, he suffered a left knee hyperextension. Fortunately, testing revealed no structural damage, but the setback has already forced him to miss two additional games.

Encouragingly, Wembanyama now appears to be trending toward a return. On Monday, the Spurs announced that he would travel with the team for Tuesday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies and had been upgraded to questionable, his first change in status after being listed as out for consecutive games.

He also participated fully in practice, taking part in five-on-five drills, a promising sign that the Spurs’ superstar may soon be back on the court (h/t Jared Weiss of The Athletic).

Victor Wembanyama is now going to travel with the Spurs to Memphis after playing five on five today, Spurs say. He will be listed as questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Grizzlies.
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) January 5, 2026

Wembanyama has been everything San Antonio envisioned when they selected him first overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. In just two seasons, he has already collected two block titles and is on pace for a third straight, while also earning Rookie of the Year honors and an All-Star selection.

His rapid rise has validated the immense hype surrounding him, and now, for the first time, it appears he will have the opportunity to lead the Spurs on a legitimate playoff run.

His health will remain the defining factor. San Antonio been cautious with his minutes, and his recent calf strain and knee hyperextension serve as reminders of the physical toll that comes with his unique frame. Yet when Wembanyama is on the floor, he changes the game in ways few players in NBA history ever have.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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