Victor Wembanyama Expected to Return This Summer Following Surgery

San Antonio, Texas – San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama is anticipated to return to the court this summer following surgery to address deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. French sports journalist Maxime Aubin reported the expected timeline for Wembanyama’s recovery.

French national team coach Frédéric Fauthoux confirmed Wembanyama’s surgery, stating, “He’s motivated to be part of the team.” Fauthoux is optimistic that Wembanyama will be ready to participate in the 2025 EuroBasket tournament, set to take place this summer.

Wembanyama’s season was cut short in February when he was diagnosed with a blood clot in his shoulder. As he recovers, there are indications that he could return to professional play as early as the EuroBasket tournament, which features Group D competitors including Poland, Slovenia, Israel, Belgium, and Iceland. The tournament will begin the opening stage prior to advancing the top four teams to the finals in Riga from Sept. 6 to Sept. 14.

In the previous EuroBasket tournament held in 2022, Spain triumphed over France in the final. If Wembanyama returns, he could bolster France’s chances, positioning the team as a potential favorite to win.

The 21-year-old player made significant contributions to the Spurs before his injury, averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 3.8 blocks per game while shooting 47.6% from the field and 35.2% from three-point range. Wembanyama was emerging as a frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year award prior to his injury, which has since altered the trajectory of his season.

Wembanyama was selected as the overall No. 1 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and is regarded as one of the best basketball prospects in recent history. His absence has noticeably impacted the Spurs, though the team is now strategizing to secure a high pick for the upcoming draft.

The Spurs currently hold the ninth-best odds of obtaining the No. 1 pick for this year’s draft, according to multiple reports.

As the NBA season progresses, attention will be focused on Wembanyama’s recovery and potential return to the court, which could significantly influence his career and the future of the Spurs.