SAN Antonio Spurs sensation Victor Wembanyama has been medically cleared to return to basketball activities after a blood clot in his right shoulder prematurely ended his 2024-25 season.
The news was confirmed by the French newspaper L’Equipe on Monday (Tuesday, July 15, 2025, PH time), with Wembanyama stating, “I’m officially cleared to return... I’ll finally be able to play a bit of basketball again.”
Wembanyama, 21, underwent surgery in March after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following his first All-Star Game appearance.
His clearance suggests the DVT was “provoked” rather than indicative of a genetic predisposition, reducing the risk of recurrence.
While the Spurs haven’t provided specific details, a type of upper-arm DVT can be caused by a rib or muscle compressing a blood vessel, issues that have historically proven treatable.
Despite playing only 46 games in the 2024-25 season, the 7-foot-3 Frenchman showcased his immense talent, averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and an NBA-leading 3.8 blocked shots.
The unanimous NBA Rookie of the Year in 2023-24, Wembanyama’s return for the upcoming season was anticipated by ESPN in May, with expectations of him being a full participant by training camp.
Since being selected first overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, Wembanyama has averaged 22.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.2 steals, and 3.7 blocked shots across 117 career starts, along with 270 made three-pointers. / FROM THE WIRES