The San Antonio Spurs’ surprising run in the inaugural Emirates NBA Cup coudl receive a notable boost this weekend with the potential return of star rookie victor Wembanyama. After a four-week absence due to a strained left calf, the 7-foot-4 phenom is reportedly progressing well and participated in a rigorous workout Wednesday as the team prepares for a semifinal matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Las Vegas [[1]]. While the Spurs have remained competitive during Wembanyama’s recovery, going 9-3 in his absence, his return would add another dimension to a team already exceeding expectations.
Victor Wembanyama averaged 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 3.6 blocks in 12 games before getting shut down by injury.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The San Antonio Spurs are on the cusp of advancing in the inaugural Emirates NBA Cup, and they could have their superstar back for the semifinal round. Victor Wembanyama is potentially set to return to the court this weekend.
Following Wednesday night’s dominant 132-119 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers – a result that secured a Cup semifinal matchup against Oklahoma City – Spurs coach Mitch Johnson indicated Wembanyama is making significant progress in his recovery from a four-week injury absence.
“Very much so,” Johnson said. “He had a really good day today. He had a very intense day this morning, and we’ll have to see how he responds or reacts (Thursday).”
Johnson revealed Wembanyama participated in a rigorous workout during the Spurs’ morning shootaround in Los Angeles. The 7-foot-4 Frenchman continued his on-court work during pregame warmups at the Lakers’ arena, notably without any additional support on his strained left calf – an injury that has sidelined him since November 14.
Before being sidelined, Wembanyama was averaging an impressive 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.6 blocks in 12 games. He’s been gradually increasing his activity level, also participating in pregame drills before the Spurs’ win at New Orleans on Monday.
That extra work could soon pay off, with the Spurs facing the defending NBA champion Thunder on Saturday night in Las Vegas. The winner will advance to the Cup title game next Tuesday. This tournament offers a first look at a new in-season competition designed to add excitement to the regular season.
The Spurs have been remarkably resilient during Wembanyama’s absence, posting a 9-3 record and showcasing a deep, talented roster after six consecutive seasons outside the playoffs.
“I think Victor would tell you we have a deep team, and we rely upon playing together as a team,” Johnson said. “He may be the biggest puzzle piece, but he needs everybody else to complete the puzzle.”
Stephon Castle, last season’s Rookie of the Year, led the charge in Los Angeles with 30 points and 10 rebounds, powering the Spurs to a convincing win over the Lakers.
Eight Spurs players scored in double figures, with De’Aaron Fox adding 20 points, Keldon Johnson contributing 17, and Harrison Barnes and Julian Champagnie each scoring 16 as San Antonio comfortably controlled the game.
“I felt like we came together and clamped down when we needed it most,” Castle said. “Just knowing the stakes of the game … I feel like we did the little things more tonight than any other game.”
