Victor Wembanyama will not play in Thursday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets. The San Antonio Spurs ruled out their star center because of right ankle soreness.
Spurs’ Late Decision on Wembanyama
The Spurs made the announcement approximately 45 minutes before the game. The visiting Nuggets feature Nikola Jokic. The two teams are among the Western Conference’s top teams.
Wembanyama had been questionable before the game. He tested the ankle pregame before the Spurs decided to keep him out.
Coach Johnson on Wembanyama’s Injury
Coach Mitch Johnson addressed Wembanyama’s condition. “We’ll be mindful of all of it,” Johnson said. “Fortunately, I think regardless, this is something we view as very short term. It’s very much how he’s feeling versus risk of bigger picture.”
Wembanyama’s Award Eligibility
Wembanyama must participate in 13 of San Antonio’s remaining 16 games to maintain eligibility for end-of-season awards. The NBA mandates that players must play at least 20 minutes in 65 games during the 82-game regular season.
Wembanyama has played in 51 games this season. He is credited with a 52nd game after playing in the NBA Cup Final. The NBA Cup Final does not count toward regular-season standings or statistics, but is part of the 65-game requirement.