Spurs beat 76ers 115-102 after losing Wembanyama to rib injury

San Antonio remains in second place in the West despite star rookie's early exit.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:52am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with sharp planes of color and overlapping shapes representing the dynamic action on the court.A cubist interpretation of the Spurs' hard-fought victory over the 76ers, with Wembanyama's injury casting a shadow over the game.Oklahoma City Today

The San Antonio Spurs defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 115-102 on Monday night, but lost rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama to a left rib contusion in the first half. Wembanyama played just 15 minutes and 40 seconds before exiting the game. Stephon Castle recorded a triple-double to lead the Spurs to victory.

Why it matters

The Spurs are battling for the second seed in the Western Conference, while the 76ers are trying to avoid the play-in tournament in the East. Wembanyama's injury could have major implications for the Spurs' playoff push and the rookie's chances of winning MVP.

The details

Wembanyama was injured when he was struck in the side by a deflected pass from 76ers star Paul George. He remained on the court for about a minute before being subbed out. Wembanyama played five more minutes before asking to be taken out with 44 seconds left in the first half. He did not return to the game. Despite Wembanyama's early exit, the Spurs were able to hold on for the victory behind Castle's triple-double performance.

  • The incident occurred at the 1:11 mark of the second quarter.
  • Wembanyama played a total of 15 minutes and 40 seconds before exiting the game.
  • The Spurs host the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Stephon Castle

A Spurs guard who recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds in the win.

Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs' rookie sensation who left the game in the first half due to a left rib contusion.

Joel Embiid

The 76ers' star center who had 34 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Paul George

The 76ers' forward who was involved in the incident that led to Wembanyama's injury.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain focused and continue to play our game, even without Victor. This team has shown its resilience all season long.”

— Mitch Johnson, Spurs Head Coach

What’s next

The Spurs will host the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday, April 9, 2026 as they continue their push for the second seed in the Western Conference. The status of Victor Wembanyama's injury will be a key storyline leading up to that game.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the Spurs' depth and ability to win without their star rookie, but also raised concerns about Wembanyama's health and its potential impact on San Antonio's playoff aspirations and his chances of winning MVP.