Spurs Make Victor Wembanyama Announcement on Saturday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Dec 27, 2025 7:12 PM ET

San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama has been working his way back to full strength following his lengthy injury layoff in November and December. The 21-year-old missed 12 consecutive games due to a calf injury but was able to return to action on Dec. 13.

The Spurs have taken a very cautious approach to their cornerstone star, having him come off the bench and remain on a minutes limit since his return. Wembanyama, however, logged 26 minutes in their Christmas Day win against the Oklahoma City Thunder. That was the most he’s played since returning, which was an indication of how the 7-foot-4 big man is closing in on being fully healthy.

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) during an NBA game.Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

The Spurs are back in action on Saturday against the Utah Jazz. San Antonio is looking to make it eight wins in a row and improve on its 23-7 record, which is currently No. 2 in the Western Conference behind the Thunder.

The good news for Spurs fans is that head coach Mitch Johnson announced before the game that Wembanyama will return to the starting lineup against the Jazz.

"Victor will start tonight," Johnson said ahead of tip-off, via Spurs beat writer Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Express-News.

It is currently unclear if Wembanyama will be on a minutes restriction for Saturday’s game, but the shift to the starting lineup is an indication of a potentially heavier workload for the former No. 1 overall pick. Entering the Jazz game, Wembanyama has averaged 30.3 minutes per contest, putting up 23.4 points on 51.4% shooting, 11.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 3.0 blocks and 1.5 triples.

It is also worth noting that De’Aaron Fox will not play on Saturday due to an adductor injury. The All-Star guard’s absence will potentially lead to the Spurs leaning more heavily on Wembanyama as they look to defeat the 11-19 Jazz.

The Spurs get Sunday off before returning to action on Monday in another home game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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

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