Spurs Coach Prioritizes Wembanyama's Health Over Awards Eligibility

Mitch Johnson says the star center's long list of goals is important, but the team will make tough decisions to keep him healthy.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:38am

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San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson said it's "important" to him that star player Victor Wembanyama remain eligible for season-ending awards, but added that the franchise cornerstone's health will always be the top priority. Wembanyama sat out one game due to a sore right ankle but returned to record 32 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists and 3 blocks in the team's win over the Charlotte Hornets.

Why it matters

The Spurs are balancing Wembanyama's individual accolades with his long-term health and development as a franchise player. The team must make tough decisions to keep their prized 21-year-old center on the court while also ensuring he can compete for prestigious end-of-season honors.

The details

Under the NBA's 65-game rule, players who miss 18 games will no longer be eligible for season-ending awards. After sitting out one game, Wembanyama can only miss 3 more games to remain eligible. However, Johnson said the team will prioritize Wembanyama's health over his awards eligibility, noting "there are still things we prioritize and put on top of the list" when it comes to the young star's long list of goals.

  • Wembanyama sat out the Spurs' 136-131 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, March 14, 2026.
  • Wembanyama returned to play 31 minutes in the Spurs' 115-102 win over the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Mitch Johnson

The head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, who is tasked with managing the development and playing time of star player Victor Wembanyama.

Victor Wembanyama

The 21-year-old star center for the San Antonio Spurs, who is considered one of the most promising young players in the NBA.

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What they’re saying

“In my opinion, Victor has the longest list of things he wants to do that are important probably in the history of basketball. And they all are important to me as well.”

— Mitch Johnson, Head Coach, San Antonio Spurs

“The inflammation in my body is basically down everywhere except in one place.”

— Victor Wembanyama

What’s next

The Spurs will need to carefully monitor Wembanyama's health and playing time over the final 15 games of the regular season to ensure he remains eligible for end-of-season awards while also prioritizing his long-term development and well-being.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the delicate balance NBA teams must strike between allowing their young stars to compete for individual accolades and protecting their health and long-term potential. The Spurs are prioritizing Wembanyama's overall well-being, even if it means he may miss out on some awards, demonstrating their commitment to building a sustainable championship contender around the generational talent.