Victor Wembanyama returns from concussion protocol, says handling was ‘disappointing’
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San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama returned to the court for Game 4 against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night after being placed in concussion protocol following Game 2.
Wembanyama said he was disappointed with the way the concussion protocol was implemented but did not provide further details.
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San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama reacts after a play in the second half of Game 4 of the first round NBA playoffs against the Portland Trail Blazers on April 26, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Jenny Kane/AP)
“The way the situation was handled was very disappointing,” he told reporters. “I’m not saying not playing was a good or bad decision. It was a decision, I’m not saying it was good or bad. But the way the situation was handled was very disappointing.”
He was injured in the first half of the Spurs’ 106-103 loss to the Trail Blazers on Tuesday. He did not return to the game and left for Portland as he continued to make strides to make it to Game 4.
“I won’t go into details. I don’t want this to distract me. Ask me again after the end of the season,” Wembanyama said.
He had 27 points, 11 rebounds and seven blocks in the Spurs’ 114-93 victory on Sunday. The team announced Wembanyama would be available to play about an hour before tipoff.
San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama and Portland Trail Blazers guard Sidy Cissoko watch for a rebound during the second half of Game 4 of the first round NBA playoffs on April 26, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Jenny Kane/AP)
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The 7-foot-10 unanimous NBA Defensive Player of the Year averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 3.1 blocks per game during the regular season.
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson said the team was prepared to play without Wembanyama if he is not cleared.
“Fortunately, we have some experience preparing for various lineups and rotations,” Johnson said before the game. “I think the kids have really empowered us as a staff to be able to have a brand and identity throughout the season, regardless of availability.”
Players diagnosed with concussions, like Wembanyama, must complete a series of criteria before being allowed to play. The results are compared to baseline neurological assessments the players received at the beginning of the season.
San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama watches the first half of Game 4 of the first round NBA playoffs against the Portland Trail Blazers on April 26, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Jenny Kane/AP)
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Game 5 will be played in San Antonio on Tuesday night.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
