Wembanyama Clears 65-Game Threshold, Eligible for NBA Awards

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San Antonio Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama has officially played in the required 65 games this season, making him eligible for the NBA's end-of-year awards like MVP. Wembanyama was in danger of missing the threshold after sustaining a rib injury earlier this month, but he was able to return and play at least 20 minutes in one of the Spurs' final three regular-season games to meet the league's criteria.

Why it matters

The 65-game rule was introduced in the latest NBA collective bargaining agreement to prevent tanking, but it has resulted in several high-profile players missing out on award consideration due to injuries this season. Wembanyama's case highlights the potential need for the league and players' union to revisit the rule, as it has impacted some of the NBA's biggest stars.

The details

Wembanyama needed to play at least 20 minutes in one of the Spurs' final three games to reach the 65-game threshold and qualify for awards like MVP, All-NBA, and Rookie of the Year. Prior to his rib injury, Wembanyama was considered a strong MVP candidate, though he still trailed Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the betting odds. The 65-game rule was intended to ensure star players take the court when healthy, but it has also resulted in players like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Anthony Edwards missing out on award consideration this season due to injuries.

• Wembanyama sustained a rib injury on April 6.
• Wembanyama played at least 20 minutes in the Spurs' game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 11 to reach the 65-game threshold.

What’s next

The NBA and players' union may revisit the 65-game eligibility rule in the next collective bargaining agreement negotiations, as several high-profile players have been impacted by the policy this season.