Victor Wembanyama breaks silence on injury scare against Knicks

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama left Wednesday night’s rematch against the New York Knicks in the fourth quarter after suffering an apparent left knee injury, but returned to the bench in time to celebrate the team’s 134-132 victory. The 7-foot-5 center, who scored 31 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in just 24 minutes, has since assured fans that the setback was minor.

The incident occurred with 10:32 remaining when Wembanyama jumped to secure an offensive rebound over New York center Karl-Anthony Towns. After landing, his left leg slid forward, causing the knee to hyperextend. Replays showed there was no contact, but Wembanyama fell to the field and was helped to his feet by teammate Stephon Castle. San Antonio trainers, doctors and GM Brian Wright followed him as he limped toward the locker room, reportedly yelling to fans, “I’ll be fine,” before returning to the bench with 1:22 left in the game, walking without a noticeable temple.

Shams Charania of ESPN reported that initial tests revealed no significant damage. Sam No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft he said after the game:

“I feel good, just sore. I’m confident. I was close to getting back in the game. They had to restrain me. . . . It was just a hyperextension. It should be minimal.”

Vembanyama is expected to undergo further testing on Thursday. His health was the main concern. He missed 12 games in November and December with a strained left calf and played just 46 games last year because of deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. Still, the 21-year-old is averaging 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.9 blocks and 0.8 steals per game this season, shooting 52.5% from the field and 36.5% from three. When he plays, the Spurs improve, posting a plus-11.6 net rating instead of a plus-2.2 when he’s off the court.

If Wembanyama misses time, veterans Luke Cornett and Kelly Olynyk will likely see more minutes in the frontcourt. The team showed resilience by winning nine of 12 games without their star. However, keeping Wembanyama available remains crucial to San Antonio’s aspirations, especially with the Western Conference playoff race tightening.

The Spurs will next face the Indiana Pacers on Friday in hopes that their center will be ready to lead the team.