The NBA world was hit with shocking news this week as San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama was ruled out for the remainder of the season due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder. The 21-year-old superstar had just delivered an electrifying performance during All-Star Weekend, participating in both the Skills Challenge and the All-Star Game, making the sudden announcement even more unexpected. Now, with 25 games left in the season, the Spurs (24-29) will have to push forward without their generational talent.
With the basketball community buzzing about the development, the “NBA on TNT” crew weighed in on the situation, and none other than Shaquille O’Neal offered a bold and optimistic take on Wembanyama’s future. The Hall of Famer, known for his dominant presence both on and off the court, declared that Wembanyama is destined to become the next face of the NBA.
“According to my doctor friends, it’s common for guys that are very large, especially guys that are very tall,” Shaq explained. “One thing I know about the NBA, especially the Spurs organization, they have the top medical people… I’m glad they just found it. This is something that you can possibly not wake up from, so I’m glad they found it, and I’m glad they’re taking control of the situation… He’s a great kid; someday, he will be the face of the league.”
Shaq’s longtime co-host, Charles Barkley, echoed his concern for Wembanyama’s health but also offered some seasoned advice. Barkley encouraged the young star to reach out to Hall of Famer Chris Bosh, whose career was tragically cut short due to blood clots.
“The first phone call I would make is to Chris Bosh,” Barkley advised. “Because he’s someone who’s been through it. Anytime I had some sort of major injury, I would reach out to him and ask about the rehab and what that experience was like. That’d be my first call.”
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Wembanyama has been nothing short of spectacular in his debut season, putting up elite numbers: 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, and a staggering 3.8 blocks per game. He was widely considered the front-runner for Defensive Player of the Year, but with the NBA’s new 65-game minimum rule for regular season awards, his early shutdown means he will no longer be eligible for the honor.
Despite this setback, the most important factor remains Wembanyama’s long-term health. Fortunately, reports indicate that he is expected to make a full recovery and should be ready to return at the start of next season.
For now, the Spurs and the rest of the NBA will have to wait to see the towering French sensation back in action. But if Shaq’s prediction holds true, Wemby’s absence this season will only be a small chapter in what promises to be a legendary career.