Victor Wembanyama to Miss Remainder of NBA Season Due to Deep Vein Thrombosis
The San Antonio Spurs announced on Thursday that star center Victor Wembanyama will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season due to a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder. The condition, a type of blood clot, was discovered after Wembanyama returned to San Antonio following the NBA All-Star Game. The Spurs’ medical staff identified the issue after Wembanyama reported that his arm “didn’t feel completely normal.”
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the legs but sometimes in the arms, pelvis, or shoulders. The condition can be serious if left untreated, as clots can dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Treatment typically involves blood-thinning medication, which usually sidelines athletes from contact sports like basketball due to the increased risk of bleeding.
The Spurs remain optimistic about Wembanyama’s recovery, expecting him to be fully ready for the start of the 2025-26 season. Acting head coach Mitch Johnson emphasized that the medical staff has assured the team that Wembanyama’s long-term health and basketball career will not be affected. “There is no reason to believe he won’t be ready to go starting next season,” Johnson said.
Wembanyama, the reigning Rookie of the Year and a first-time NBA All-Star, was averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and a league-leading 3.8 blocks per game this season. His absence is a significant blow to the Spurs, who are currently 23-29. Johnson described the news as “devastating,” noting Wembanyama’s importance to the team both on and off the court.
The Spurs’ medical team had been monitoring Wembanyama’s energy levels, which had been unusually low leading up to the diagnosis. This vigilance allowed them to catch the condition early, potentially preventing more severe complications. Wembanyama will not be eligible for major awards this season, including Defensive Player of the Year, due to the NBA’s 65-game minimum requirement.
Wembanyama’s diagnosis adds to a growing list of NBA players who have dealt with blood clot issues, including Chris Bosh, Brandon Ingram, and Ausar Thompson. While some players, like Ingram, have returned to peak performance after recovery, others, like Bosh, saw their careers cut short by recurring issues. The Spurs and Wembanyama are hopeful that his case will follow the former trajectory, with a full recovery expected in time for next season.
Spurs shutting down Wembanyama for season
Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the remainder of the season with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.
www.espn.comVictor Wembanyama diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis: What other athletes have had similar conditions?
On Thursday, the San Antonio Spurs announced star center Victor Wembanyama will be out for the rest of the regular season after being diagnosed with d
sports.yahoo.com
How the Spurs Caught Victor Wembanyama's Season-Ending DVT Diagnosis
The Spurs had been concerned about Wembanyama’s “low energy,” prompting a deeper look into his health.
www.si.com
Deep vein thrombosis: Explaining the injury that ended Wemby's season early
Deep vein thrombosis, or blood clotting, is the third most-common vascular disease in the U.S.
www.kens5.com
What to know about deep vein thrombosis, Victor Wembanyama’s condition
Victor Wembanyama, the reigning NBA rookie of the year, is out for the rest of the season with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.
www.washingtonpost.com
Victor Wembanyama injury: What is deep vein thrombosis? NBA star has blood clot, Spurs optimistic on outlook
Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the rest of the regular season due to a blood clot
www.cbssports.com
What is deep vein thrombosis? Victor Wembanyama's injury explained.
The San Antonio Spurs announced Thursday that Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the rest of the season for deep vein thrombosis in his right shoul
www.expressnews.com