Victor Wembanyama ready for his rebirth: « Nobody trained like I did this summer »

Eight months after his last appearance on an NBA court, Victor Wembanyama is back. The French big man of the San Antonio Spurs, sidelined since mid-February due to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, made waves during his team’s Media Day. At 21, « Wemby » displays unwavering confidence and massive ambitions for the 2025-2026 season.

« I think nobody trained like I did this summer, the progress I’ve made is simply incredible. I’ve gained muscle mass, I’m much more in control and my physical condition is much better, » declared the giant, now officially listed at 7’4″ (his unofficial height since 2022, with his official height having been limited to 7’3″). A strong statement that demonstrates his determination to bounce back after this ordeal.

A Summer of Physical and Mental Transformation

Wembanyama’s offseason was marked by hard work and unique experiences. After a ten-day spiritual retreat at a Shaolin temple in China, the Frenchman then focused on getting back in shape. « My training was brutal this summer, » he warned. « I first wanted to heal, come back, then develop and I can tell you that the progress has been incredible. »

This injury, though difficult to endure, seems to have strengthened his motivation. « This experience changed my life. I spent a lot of time in the hospital, surrounded by doctors, hearing more bad news than I hoped for. But I think in the long run it will be beneficial, » confided the French star.

The Olympic silver medalist from Paris also used this period to explore his other passions, from participating in the development of the animated series « Alien dunk » to visiting NASA, and organizing a basketball-chess tournament in Le Chesnay.

From the court to the cosmos, Wemby’s got game 🏀🚀

NBA star @Wemby, Victor Wembanyama stopped by NASA’s Johnson Space Center for a tour that included the Vehicle Mockup Facility, Mission Control, and a ride in a lunar rover.

Whether it’s dominating the paint or geeking out… pic.twitter.com/EpfrgfgzHc

— NASA’s Johnson Space Center (@NASA_Johnson) August 29, 2025

San Antonio Betting Everything on their Phenomenon

Head coach Mitch Johnson, who took the reins after Gregg Popovich’s departure, doesn’t hide his ambitions. « We want our team to be in Victor Wembanyama’s image, he’s our best player, » he declared. The medical staff and NBA have given the green light for the Frenchman’s return, scheduled for the season opener on October 22 in Dallas.

Without playoffs for six years, the Spurs are counting on their phenomenon to take the next step. Wembanyama, who was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds and 3.8 blocks before his injury, says he’s ready for the challenge: « I need to play basketball now, to work with the team. I can’t wait, I’ve missed it so much! »

With recruits like Dylan Harper (2nd draft pick) and veterans like Kelly Olynyk, San Antonio hopes to finally return to the top of the Western Conference thanks to a transformed and success-hungry Wembanyama.

We know y’all been waiting for this one 📸 pic.twitter.com/eEdYgvDrqb

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) September 29, 2025