San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama has grown to become one of the leaders of a young Spurs team. Ahead of the 2025-26 season, the Frenchman spoke to the media on Monday, setting sky-high expectations for himself and the Spurs. He predicted that the Spurs would reach their highest seed since 2017. During the 2016-2017 season, San Antonio finished No. 2 behind the Golden State Warriors.
“Success would be getting to the playoffs and not the play-in,” said Victor Wembanyama [start from 9:20]. “So I guess that means the sixth seed.”
This upcoming season will mark Coach Mitch Johnson’s first full year as head coach. He succeeded the legendary Gregg Popovich, who stepped down from coaching and moved into the role of President of Basketball Operations. Johnson will aim to guide the Spurs to their first playoffs appearance since 2019, when they lost in the first round to the Denver Nuggets.
Last season is now in the rear-view mirror after a promising sophomore campaign ended prematurely due to injury. Wembanyama was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder after the All-Star game and subsequently missed the remainder of the season as the Spurs faltered and missed the postseason once again.
He marked his return during the 2025 preseason, showing glimpses of his immense potential. On Friday, he helped the Spurs cap off a perfect 5-0 preseason run by defeating the Indiana Pacers 133-104. The 2024 Rookie of the Year finished the game with 17 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks.
### What’s Next for Victor Wembanyama?
Victor Wembanyama will lead San Antonio alongside star guard De’Aaron Fox and young talents Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle, positioning the Spurs as potential dark horses in the Western Conference.
Fans and analysts expect Wembanyama to elevate his defensive game while continuing to improve his offensive output, as showcased in the preseason. While he may have another run at individual honors, true success will be measured by how far he can lead the Spurs toward a level of achievement not seen since the Tim Duncan era.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/news-victor-wembanyama-sets-expectations-sky-high-predicting-spurs-reach-highest-seed-since-2017
