Wembanyama Lifts Spurs to Playoffs

The Spurs' Return to Glory: How Victor Wembanyama is Redefining NBA Playoff Contention

Mar. 20, 2026 at 6:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The San Antonio Spurs are heading back to the playoffs for the first time since 2019, and the driving force behind this resurgence is rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. His game-winning shot against the Phoenix Suns marked a shift in the NBA landscape and a potential new era of dominant, versatile large-man play.

Why it matters

Wembanyama's clutch performance and all-around impact have been instrumental in the Spurs' resurgence, signaling a potential shift in the NBA's power dynamics as the team prioritizes unique, versatile players who can impact the game in multiple ways.

The details

Wembanyama's game-winning shot, a 17-foot fadeaway with 1.1 seconds remaining, was his first go-ahead make in the final five seconds of the fourth quarter or overtime, demonstrating his growing confidence and composure under pressure. His final stat line of 34 points, 12 rebounds, and three steals underscores his all-around impact on the game.

  • The Spurs last made the playoffs in 2019, ending a six-season drought.
  • Wembanyama's game-winning shot against the Phoenix Suns came on March 20, 2026.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

A rookie sensation who has been the driving force behind the Spurs' resurgence, leading the team back to the playoffs for the first time since 2019.

De'Aaron Fox

A Spurs player who contributed 23 points in the game against the Suns.

Keldon Johnson

A Spurs player who led an 'MVP' chant for Wembanyama, highlighting the team's unity and belief in their star player.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Wembanyama emphasized the importance of waiting for the right moment, avoiding a rushed shot that could give the opponent a chance at an offensive rebound. This calculated approach, combined with his unique skillset, makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.”

— Victor Wembanyama

What’s next

The Spurs' success story could inspire other teams to prioritize unique, versatile players who can impact the game in multiple ways. Keep an eye on Victor Wembanyama's development throughout the playoffs, as his performance will be a key indicator of the Spurs' potential for long-term success.

The takeaway

Wembanyama's clutch performance and all-around impact have been instrumental in the Spurs' resurgence, signaling a potential shift in the NBA's power dynamics as the team prioritizes unique, versatile players who can impact the game in multiple ways. The Spurs' return to the playoffs represents a team effort, with Wembanyama as the catalyst, and could inspire other teams to follow a similar path.