Victor Wembanyama, celebrated for his standout debut with team France during the Paris 2024 Olympics, has decided to postpone his return to international basketball. Despite expectations for his participation in EuroBasket this summer, Wembanyama is focusing on his health and recovery instead of competing in the upcoming major FIBA tournament.

Wembanyama’s Recovery Progress and Return Plans

Last summer, Wembanyama nearly helped France challenge the United States on their home court, thrilling fans globally. However, he has not yet resumed full-contact practices, which has delayed his reentry into competitive play. His team and supporters remain optimistic about a return, but the San Antonio Spurs are encouraging a cautious approach to his rehabilitation.

RC Buford, a key figure with the Spurs, spoke about Wembanyama’s comeback timeline, saying,

“Returning to team training? I think we’re very close to that, yes,”

as reported by Le Parisien.

During the offseason, the young star has maintained an active lifestyle, engaging in soccer, kung-fu, and casual pickup basketball games in various locations. These activities indicate that his earlier health issues, including deep vein thrombosis, have likely been resolved. Now, the focus is on regaining his optimal physical condition.

Implications for the French National Team Without Wembanyama

The absence of Wembanyama presents a significant challenge for the French squad. The situation is compounded by Rudy Gobert‘s withdrawal from the team, leaving Les Bleus without two of their pivotal players for EuroBasket. In response, Washington Wizards forward Bilal Coulibaly is expected to take on a larger responsibility in France’s lineup during the tournament.

Fans have also noticed a visible change in Wembanyama’s physique from recent photos, highlighting added muscle and weight, which suggests dedication to his conditioning ahead of the regular NBA season.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Wembanyama and the Spurs

While fans eagerly anticipate Victor Wembanyama’s return to competitive basketball at both the international and club levels, his measured approach prioritizes long-term health over immediate competition. This strategy could ensure his sustained performance and impact in upcoming seasons. Meanwhile, the Spurs benefit from managing their young star’s recovery carefully, allowing him ample time to regain full fitness before resuming intense play.