Wembanyama's Comeback: Spurs Ignite as a Young Star Takes Center Stage

Return and Readiness

After more than eight months away from the court, the French giant Victor Wembanyama confirmed he is '100 percent ready' to return as he enters his third NBA season with the San Antonio Spurs, amid rising expectations around the young star.

The preseason saw him state that he is fully fit and prepared to go, offering no excuses as the season looms.

The five exhibition games let him regain rhythm and show clear signs of physical growth in his game.

Eight months after a shoulder blood clot sidelined him following his All-Star appearance, the 21-year-old used the break to pursue treatment, a Shaolin Temple retreat in China, and a visit to NASA, a mix as bold as his rise.

This World Summer was devoted to rigorous training, though he opted not to join France at the European Championship.

The Spurs open their campaign against the Dallas Mavericks, meeting young Cooper Flagg, 18, whose ceiling is being watched by a lot of eyes across the league.

The long absence did not dull the excitement around Wembanyama, whose numbers were rising before the setback (24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks in 46 games).

Rather, his name sits among top MVP contenders as the season approaches.

Some coaches even named him among their MVP preseason favorites, matching the votes given to other top players, underscoring the buzz around his talent.

Former Nugget Carmelo Anthony, now a Hall of Famer, contends that Wembanyama will be the league MVP by season's end.

Anthony, on a podcast, said Wembanyama could lead in multiple categories, potentially posting averages of 25 points, 15 rebounds, 5 blocks, with strong playmaking numbers like 12 assists and 6 steals—numbers that look like a video game come to life.

Wembanyama also spent the summer training with legends such as Hakeem Olajuwon and Kevin Garnett, soaking up insights near the basket and beyond.

Garnett described the experience as comprehensive, a chance to start a relationship filled with tips about technique and handling teammates, referees, coaches, teammates, and even opponents.

The spark that rekindled hope for Spurs fans is the coaching transition with Mitch Johnson stepping in for the legendary Gregg Popovich, as the team ties his development to that of the squad.

Kornet praised Wembanyama's work ethic and his approach to the game, while Keldon Johnson said the rookie spark has revived their winning spirit in San Antonio.

And Johnson added that Wembanyama is hungry for wins, always prioritizing teammates, a quality Spurs fans had missed during his absence.

As the Spurs head toward an 82-game grind, expectations are high for a franchise hoping to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2019 after finishing 34-48 last season.

With the addition of point guard De'Aaron Fox in the winter, the team drafted Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant in June, following a year that saw Stiven Castle named Rookie of the Year the previous season.

The Spurs also reeled in veterans Luke Kornet and Kelly Olynyk, adding depth and experience around a young core.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said the growth of Wembanyama and the team's development go hand in hand, a message echoed by teammates and management alike.

Kornet said he was surprised by his work ethic and how seriously he takes the game, while Johnson noted Wembanyama's role as a spark plug for the lineup.

Ultimately, teammates insist the 21-year-old is the catalyst for returning the Spurs to relevance, with pieces around him ready to chase a postseason return.

And if you’re wondering whether the hype will survive the NBA grind, fear not—Wembanyama eats bigger breakfasts than most players eat lunches, and the opponent's defense should remember that the best way to stop a dragon is to bring extra help.

Punchline time: if basketball were a stand-up show, Wembanyama would be headlining every night, with the rim as his mic and every block a guaranteed punchline.

Final wink: the Spurs’ fate now hinges on defense, pace, and whether the rookies stay calm under the bright lights—because greatness loves a little swagger and a good team vibe.