San Antonio faced a significant setback as their standout centre Victor Wembanyama took a distressing tumble, landing hard on his chin during a playoff encounter with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Wembanyama, one of the league’s most valuable players, is anticipated to secure a maximum contract extension worth up to $450 million (AUD) over five years during the off-season. After his alarming fall to the court in the second quarter, he was promptly placed in the NBA’s concussion protocol.
The Spurs ultimately lost 106-103 to the Blazers, which levelled the Western Conference first-round series at 1-1.
According to league regulations, a player under concussion protocol must remain inactive for at least 48 hours and must successfully meet various recovery benchmarks without exhibiting symptoms before being cleared for play.
Additionally, the player must pass neurological evaluations and receive final approval from a team physician, in consultation with the league’s concussion protocol director.
Victor Wembanyama falls face first onto the court. Twitter
With Game 3 of the series scheduled for Saturday (AEST), it appears unlikely that Wembanyama will be cleared in time, although Spurs coach Mitch Johnson refrained from speculating on his status.
“He has a concussion. He’s in the protocol,” said Spurs coach Mitch Johnson.
“We’ll take the necessary and appropriate actions.”
“The protocol is what it is,” Johnson added. “We’ll adhere to it like everyone else and plan from there.”
At just 22 years of age, Wembanyama has already made history as the youngest NBA Defensive Player of the Year, achieving this honor unanimously.
Victor Wembanyama holds his head after falling to the court. Getty
During the regular season, he posted career-best averages of 25.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 3.1 blocks, and a steal.
He also became the sole player in the NBA to achieve over 1,500 points, 700 rebounds, 150 blocks, and 50 steals in a single season.
“Everyone needs to step up,” remarked Spurs guard Devin Vassell following the match.
“We’re well aware of what Vic brings to our squad. We’ve managed without him for a few games this season. It’s going to be the next man up. Each one of us will need to rise to the occasion. It’s a significant gap to fill.”
“We can’t let it become a burden.”
“We’ll definitely check in on him. Our thoughts are with him, and we just want him back healthy.”
Wembanyama was fouled by Jrue Holiday after spinning around the Trail Blazers point guard in the paint. He couldn’t brace for his fall, leading to his jaw striking the court with eight minutes left in the second quarter.
The Spurs star player was surrounded by teammates as he looked dazed and confused. Getty
Wembanyama appeared disoriented on the floor for approximately 30 seconds before he managed to sit up and promptly made his way down the tunnel.
“We’re praying for the best outcome, but I haven’t received any updates,” admitted forward Keldon Johnson.
“Clearly, it’s a significant blow not having our big guy available.
“Nonetheless, we’re a solid team, and we’ll continue to support each other and commit to our game plan that has brought us this far.”
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