Wembanyama Cleared for Spurs Training Camp

Victor Wembanyama has been cleared for full basketball activities at Spurs training camp after last season’s deep vein thrombosis, saying he trained “brutally” over the summer, feels stronger and is targeting the preseason (Oct. 6) and the regular-season opener in Dallas (Oct. 22). Coach Mitch Johnson—officially promoted after Gregg Popovich’s retirement—stressed defense is “nonnegotiable” as San Antonio hopes Wembanyama’s return and improved strength will help end its six-year playoff drought. Medical reporting indicates the DVT was likely provoked and comparable clot issues in other athletes have been treatable, though the Spurs have not released full specifics. The roster is not at full strength: No. 2 pick Dylan Harper’s debut is uncertain after a thumb injury, and guard De’Aaron Fox is out for the preseason with a hamstring issue that could cost him the opener. Wembanyama averaged 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 3.8 blocks in 2024–25 and says he needs game reps to translate offseason gains into team and tactical development. He credited unconventional offseason work—including training with monks and visits to NASA—for improving his conditioning and mental strength.