San Antonio, January 3,2026 – San Antonio spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama suffered a hyperextension in his left knee during Wednesday’s thrilling 134-132 victory over the New York Knicks,but initial tests have ruled out a major injury,according to ESPN. The Spurs rallied to win after Wembanyama’s exit, showcasing resilience and depth.
Spurs Rally After Wembanyama Injury Scare
The Spurs overcame a deficit after their star rookie left the game with a knee injury.
- Wembanyama sustained a left knee hyperextension in the fourth quarter against the Knicks.
- Initial tests indicate the injury is not serious, offering relief to the Spurs.
- Wembanyama anticipates returning to the lineup for Friday’s game against the Indiana Pacers.
- The Spurs mounted a comeback, outscoring the Knicks 71-62 in the second half.
the incident occurred with 10:32 remaining in the fourth quarter. Wembanyama landed awkwardly after pursuing a rebound, his left foot moving forward and causing his knee to bend inward. He instantly grabbed his knee in pain before limping off the court and heading to the locker room for evaluation. Despite the visible discomfort, Wembanyama finished the game on the bench with his teammates.
“Have not been able to talk to the medical staff yet, but I saw what everybody else saw,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said postgame.”there’s a visual there, but obviously he finished the game on the bench with his teammates, so that made me feel good. I have no idea what to say, but it was good to see him walk back out and be able to finish the game on the bench with his teammates.”
Wembanyama, remarkably optimistic, expressed his belief that he’ll be available for the Spurs’ next contest, a Friday road game versus the Indiana Pacers. “Feeling good, just sore,” Wembanyama stated. “I was ‘this’ close to coming back in the game. they had to hold me back.”
The Spurs trailed 102-96 when Wembanyama exited, but a spirited second-half performance, culminating in 71 points, propelled them to victory. Both the Spurs and the Knicks entered the game in second place in their respective conferences, locked in tight races with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Detroit Pistons for top seeding.
Wembanyama’s Impact and Recent Injury History
Wembanyama has quickly become a cornerstone for the Spurs, driving their ascent in the Western Conference. The All-Star and former Rookie of the Year is averaging 24 points per game through the first 20 games and is on track for a third consecutive season averaging a double-double. His shooting percentage has also improved to a career-high 51.4%.
What is the concern regarding Wembanyama’s injury? The injury echoes a similar situation involving Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić, who was diagnosed with a hyperextended knee on Monday and is expected to be sidelined for at least four weeks.
This isn’t the first injury setback for Wembanyama this season. he previously missed a month due to a calf strain sustained against the Golden State Warriors on Nov. 14, returning to action on Dec. 13 against the Thunder.He gradually reintegrated into the starting lineup, with Wednesday’s game marking onyl his third start since recovering from the calf issue.He finished with 31 points and 13 rebounds before leaving the game.
