Victor Wembanyama impresses in San Antonio return after 7-month absence

Over 10,000 San Antonio Spurs fans were treated to an anticipated show Saturday night at the Frost Bank Center. Victor Wembanyama made his grand return to the court after more than seven months away, having been sidelined from competition since February 20 due to venous thrombosis in his shoulder.

The reception for the 21-year-old Frenchman matched the anticipation. Arriving in black shorts and tank top for warm-ups, Wembanyama received an impressive standing ovation from the crowd, who chanted in unison: « Wemby! Wemby! ». This free, public scrimmage featured Spurs players divided into two teams.

A show of force against Luke Kornet

Starting for the black jersey team alongside Harrison Barnes, Victor Wembanyama quickly made an impression. The 2023-2024 Rookie of the Year scored 8 points in his first 8 minutes of play, dominating Luke Kornet (7’2″, 249 lbs). The highlight? A devastating two-handed dunk after starting behind the 3-point line, pushing away his defender with a shoulder move.

WEMBY IS BACK pic.twitter.com/OlQcqjbRru

— Daniel M (@BoasMohajer) October 4, 2025

« He’s stronger than before and better at maintaining his balance. His ability to bring the ball up the court, use his shoulder, and finish… he’s becoming monstrous, not just in scoring but simply in getting shots up, » said Luke Kornet after this shortened game of four 8-minute quarters.

Wembanyama’s physical improvements are undeniable. Now measured at 7’4″ and 240 lbs, the French center has gained 4 pounds of muscle over the last 12 months. This physical transformation allows him to constantly attack the paint with devastating efficiency.

Less visible in the second half and struggling from behind the arc (0/4 on 3-pointers), Wemby finished with 12 points on 6/12 shooting in 21 minutes. His team lost 67-65, but the main focus was elsewhere: reassuring everyone about his physical condition less than three weeks before the season starts.

After the game, Victor Wembanyama took the microphone to thank fans and congratulate the Spurs Jackals, the new fan group he recently created. These « ultras » were already fifty strong, creating atmosphere with drums and medieval horns.

The Spurs will start their preseason against Miami this Wednesday, before their first official game on October 22 at Dallas. The objective is clear: secure a direct playoff spot by finishing in the top six places in the Western Conference.