LAS VEGAS — Victor Wembanyama has become the standout figure at this year’s NBA 2K26 Summer League, earning enthusiastic ovations each time he takes the court. Although he has yet to make his official debut with the San Antonio Spurs, the 21-year-old rookie is fully embracing the experience alongside teammates such as De’Aaron Fox, Harrison Barnes, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, and Julian Champagnie. Fans and players alike are witnessing the emergence of new talents like Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant amid the vibrant atmosphere.
Meanwhile, conversations around the absence of Kevin Durant have captured attention, particularly in light of the widespread Kevin Durant Spurs trade rumors that circulated during the offseason. Despite speculation linking Durant to the Spurs, Wembanyama has remained unconcerned, prioritizing team unity over the acquisition of a single superstar.
Wembanyama Advocates for Preserving Spurs’ Young Core
In his first interview since the end of last season, Wembanyama dismissed the idea of breaking up the Spurs’ young core to bring in Durant.
Breaking up a young core for a single player rarely works,
he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced roster—an approach long valued by the franchise. Acquiring Durant from the Phoenix Suns, a team facing difficulties, would have likely required trading away key contributors like Devin Vassell and possibly Harrison Barnes, despite the Suns’ reduced leverage in trade talks.
Durant’s Move to Houston Supports Spurs’ Patient Strategy
Ultimately, Durant was traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green, and the 10th overall draft pick, which the Rockets used to select Khaman Maluach. This transaction reflects the Spurs’ measured development plan, as neither Vassell nor Barnes ranked among the team’s top scorers last season, allowing the Spurs to continue nurturing their young talent without major disruption.
Spurs Management Emphasizes Steady Progression
San Antonio general manager Brian Wright echoed Wembanyama’s viewpoint, underlining the team’s deliberate pace.
We put one foot in front of the other,
he said, highlighting the Spurs’ dedication to building a cohesive unit rather than pursuing headline-grabbing trades that could unsettle their promising roster.
Wembanyama’s Focus Remains on Team Chemistry and Growth
As the summer league progresses, Wembanyama continues to concentrate on strengthening the team’s chemistry and preparing for upcoming challenges. This commitment reinforces the Spurs’ strategy of thoughtful roster management, prioritizing long-term growth over quick fixes.