San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama said his left knee hyperextension “should be minimal” after he limped off the floor early in the fourth quarter of Wednesday night’s game. The 20-year-old center told reporters he felt “just sore” and was “this close” to re-entering before team staff held him out.
“I’m confident,” Wembanyama said. “We’re going to do everything tomorrow to make sure it is OK.” He added that he expects to suit up Friday in Indiana, the first half of a back-to-back, although he noted the medical staff will make the final call. After being examined, Wembanyama returned to the bench in slippers and walked without a noticeable limp.
Interim head coach Mitch Johnson said seeing Wembanyama back with teammates was encouraging. “Obviously, he finished the game on the bench, so that made me feel good,” Johnson told reporters.
Champagnie’s Historic Night From Deep
Julian Champagnie fueled San Antonio’s comeback by hitting 11 of 17 three-pointers, finishing with 36 points. According to the team, it is the most points ever scored by an NBA player without attempting a two-point shot. The rest of the Spurs combined to shoot 3-for-21 from long range.
Fox Delivers in Crunch Time
Acquired for his late-game pedigree, De’Aaron Fox scored 11 fourth-quarter points after Wembanyama exited. Knicks coach Mike Brown, who coached Fox for three seasons in Sacramento, said the outburst was no surprise: “He’s just a great player, man.”
Vassell Sidelined
Devin Vassell missed the game with an adductor strain. Johnson indicated the guard is expected to be out for “more than a game or two.” Champagnie started in his place.
The Spurs visit the Pacers on Friday before returning home Saturday to complete the back-to-back.
Source: Hoops Rumors
