Spurs' Wembanyama grateful after diagnosis solved mystery

Victor Wembanyama's deep vein thrombosis diagnosis last year explained his fatigue, allowing him to bounce back this season.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 12:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama opened up about the medical diagnosis he received last year that explained his exhaustion during the 2025 NBA season. Wembanyama revealed he had a blood clot issue known as deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder, which caused his fatigue and sluggishness prior to the All-Star break. After initially being shocked by the news, Wembanyama was relieved to learn the condition could be treated and not threaten his long-term health. This season, Wembanyama has bounced back, averaging 25 points, 10.9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks per game in February.

Why it matters

Wembanyama's diagnosis and recovery provide insight into the challenges elite athletes can face, even at the peak of their careers. His openness about the experience also highlights the importance of thorough medical evaluations to uncover underlying conditions that may be impacting an athlete's performance.

The details

Wembanyama said he was feeling "very, very bad" in the weeks leading up to the 2025 All-Star break, admitting he had "maybe 5% of blood flow in his right arm" during the All-Star Game itself. After the diagnosis, Wembanyama was relieved to learn the deep vein thrombosis could be treated, allowing him to focus on his recovery. This season, Wembanyama has bounced back, dominating in February with averages of 25 points, 10.9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks per game.

  • Wembanyama was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder prior to the 2025 NBA All-Star break.
  • Wembanyama struggled with fatigue and sluggishness in the weeks leading up to the 2025 All-Star break.
  • Wembanyama said the 2025 NBA All-Star Game was "the worst I had ever felt on a basketball court in my life."

The players

Victor Wembanyama

A 7-foot-4 center for the San Antonio Spurs who was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder prior to the 2025 NBA All-Star break.

Luke Kornet

A Vanderbilt alumnus and Spurs teammate of Wembanyama who helped correct Wembanyama's attempt to flash the "Hook'em Horns" hand sign at a recent game against the Suns.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He thought (Horns) down was the way to do it. I said, 'Oh, no, no. Definitely not. Don't do that.'”

— Luke Kornet, Spurs teammate (Austin American-Statesman)

“The All-Star Game last year was the worst I had ever felt on a basketball court in my life. I mean, I had maybe 5% of blood flow in my right arm.”

— Victor Wembanyama (Express-News)

“I'm not trying to take the game for granted, because I've seen that it can end very quickly.”

— Victor Wembanyama (Express-News)

What’s next

The Spurs will continue their 'I-35 Series' against the Suns on Saturday, February 21 in San Antonio.

The takeaway

Wembanyama's openness about his medical diagnosis and recovery process provides valuable insight into the challenges elite athletes can face, even at the peak of their careers. His bounce-back performance this season underscores the importance of thorough medical evaluations to uncover and address underlying conditions that may be impacting an athlete's performance.