Victor Wembanyama injury: “Just a hyperextension”

A tense night in San Antonio, followed by a sigh of relief. Victor Wembanyama left the court limping in the fourth quarter of the Spurs’ 134–132 win over the New York Knicks after an awkward movement of his left knee under the basket. His postgame comments, though, immediately lowered the level of concern.

The French big man explained that he suffered a “simple hyperextension” (an injury similar to the one Nikola Jokic sustained a few days ago), with no immediate signs of anything more serious:

I was confident, I was really close to getting back on the floor. They had to hold me back. It’s just a hyperextension, it should be something minor

Victor Wembanyama

The incident occurred with 10:32 left to play, during a rebound battle with Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordan Clarkson. After landing, Wembanyama immediately grabbed his knee before being helped up by Stephon Castle.

The Frost Bank Center crowd noticed a significant detail: the Spurs’ No. 1 reportedly repeated “I’m fine” several times, both to his teammate and toward the stands, as he headed to the locker room walking under his own power.

Late in the game, Wembanyama returned to the bench with 1:22 left on the clock, wearing a tracksuit and without re-entering the court – a sign that also reassured the coaching staff.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson commented:

I haven’t spoken to the medical staff yet, but the fact that he was on the bench with his teammates made me feel good. I think that’s what everyone saw

Mitch Johnson

Caution remains warranted given the recent past: the Frenchman had already missed 12 games at the start of the season due to a left calf issue, returning gradually in mid-December. This time, however, the feeling is very different.

I expect to be back already in the next game

Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs are keeping their fingers crossed, but the message is clear: Wembanyama is confident, and at the moment there are no indications pointing to a prolonged absence.