The basketball realm was dealt a grim blow on Thursday as news broke out that 21-year-old San Antonio Spurs sensation, Victor Wembanyama, will be sidelined for the rest of the 2024-25 season. Wembanyama’s awe-inspiring sophomore season was abruptly halted following a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.
Standing tall at 7-foot-3, Wembanyama has been a formidable presence on the court, averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks over 46 games this season. His shooting stats have been equally impressive, with a field goal percentage of 47.6% and a beyond the arc shooting percentage of 35.2%. With such stellar performances, Wembanyama’s place among the NBA’s top stars is unquestionable; hence, his long-term absence is a crushing blow for many basketball enthusiasts.
NBA Hall of Famer and Los Angeles Lakers’ icon, Shaquille O’Neal, didn’t mince words when addressing Wembanyama’s injury. He candidly expressed his thoughts on the situation while extending his support to the Spurs’ prodigy. “From my interactions with medical professionals, it’s not uncommon for deep vein thrombosis to afflict individuals who are particularly tall,” O’Neal stated. “But one thing I’m certain of is that the NBA, and in particular, the Spurs organization, have some of the best medical teams. I’m relieved they were able to diagnose it.”
Echoing the sentiments of his colleagues, O’Neal acknowledged the severity of Wembanyama’s condition, stating, “This is something that you can possibly not wake up from, so I’m glad they found it, and I’m glad they’re taking control of the situation… He’s a remarkable young player; someday, he will undoubtedly be the face of the league.”
O’Neal’s expression of support is particularly noteworthy, given his past remarks where he suggested that Phoenix Suns’ forward, Bol Bol, could match Wembanyama’s prowess on the court. However, Wembanyama has consistently demonstrated his superior ability, proving that he’s on a different plane altogether. O’Neal’s support, therefore, regardless of his previous comments, is a robust endorsement from the retired basketball titan.
