Victor Wembanyama reaches 500 career blocks against Oklahoma City

Victor Wembanyama continues to make NBA history in his second professional season. The French phenom of the San Antonio Spurs crossed the symbolic 500 career blocks milestone on Monday night, during the 119-98 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. An even more remarkable feat considering the 7’4″ center has missed numerous games due to injuries during his first two seasons.

A spectacular 500th block on rival Chet Holmgren

The timing of this 500th block couldn’t have been better scripted. At 9 minutes and 2 seconds remaining in the second quarter, Wembanyama spectacularly rejected a corner 3-point attempt from none other than Chet Holmgren, his eternal rival since their junior national team matchups.

This symbolic play takes on special significance knowing that Wembanyama has never hesitated to take veiled shots at Holmgren in the past. Frustrating the Thunder center in this manner certainly provided personal satisfaction for the Frenchman, even in the context of a decisive loss.

VICTOR WEMBANYAMA BLOCKS CHET HOLMGREN’S THREE. 🔥🔒

pic.twitter.com/9LL5yPVmsy

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) January 14, 2026

Since arriving in the NBA in 2023 after being selected first overall in the Draft, Wembanyama has established himself as one of the league’s best rim protectors. His ability to intimidate opposing attackers and his exceptional timing already make him the most formidable shot-blocker in the entire league.

A mixed evening despite the personal milestone

Despite reaching this milestone, Wembanyama‘s evening was marked by collective disappointment. The Spurs, virtually at full strength with only Devin Vassell absent, failed to contain the Thunder‘s offense in the third quarter. The Frenchman finished the game with 17 points, 7 rebounds and only 1 block, statistics below his usual standards.

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A scare also marked the end of the third quarter when Wembanyama complained of knee pain, before being able to return to action in the fourth quarter. The Spurs, who had won their first three matchups against the Thunder this season, will look to get back on track Thursday against the Milwaukee Bucks at home.