Wembanyama sends fans into a spin as he hints at record season hopes
The Spurs giant spoke after he made an emphatic return to the court.
In a night that mixed drama with raw talent, Victor Wembanyama made his long‑awaited return to action and instantly reminded the basketball world why he is the centre of so much excitement.
After missing 12 games with a left calf strain, the San Antonio Spurs’ 7‑foot‑5 monster came off the bench and delivered a performance that not only swung a big game but also sparked talk of historic potential for the rest of the season.
Facing the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the NBA Cup semifinals, Wembanyama scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds in just 21 minutes as the Spurs edged out a thrilling 111‑109 victory. His contribution helped halt OKC’s 16‑game winning streak and sent San Antonio into the NBA Cup final against the New York Knicks.
VICTOR WEMBANYAMA TONIGHT:
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 14, 2025
22 POINTS
9 REBOUNDS
2 ASSISTS
2 BLOCKS
1 STEAL
+21 +/-
6/11 FGM
1/1 3PM
ONLY 21 MINUTES — HE’S BACK. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/BPzcFuZNEQ
“Can you win the MVP and the Sixth Man in the same year?”
The Spurs had shown resilience in recent weeks, going 9‑3 without their star, but his presence was electric.
After the game, he sent the fans into raptures with his comments, asking reporters: “Can you win the MVP and the Sixth Man [of the Year award] in the same year?” Wemby clearly has his hopes set high.
“It’s our first time playing [with] everybody [healthy],” Wembanyama added. “We were already a solid team already more than 20 games ago. It’s just experience. We’re just figuring it out. And the difference with us and [Oklahoma City] is we haven’t had this many reps recognizing what it takes to win. And this is our next step.
“This OKC team, they’re not just first in the league. They’re way ahead of everybody. And when you watch them, no matter who, whether it’s the 12th man or the starting five, whether they’re playing against the 15th seed or any kind of game, they’re playing the same way. They’re enjoying the little things that make them win, and this is the next step we have to pass.”
Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama after upsetting the Thunder in the NBA Cup semifinals: “I’m just glad to be part of something that’s growing to be so beautiful — pure and ethical basketball.” pic.twitter.com/AoBAUlTSgs
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) December 14, 2025
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The NBA Cup final (the championship game of the 2025–26 NBA Cup) is scheduled for Tuesday, 16 December 2025.
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