Victor Wembanyama's participation in EuroBasket 2025 with France is looking increasingly unlikely, as the San Antonio Spurs center focuses on his recovery from a right shoulder deep vein thrombosis. The 21-year-old addressed his health status during an end-of-season press conference, stating, "I’m able to do hard work, hard lifting, and also basketball work," but emphasized that his activity is "very controlled and light" under medical supervision.

Wembanyama, who missed the latter part of the 2024-25 NBA season following the All-Star break, appeared in 46 games, averaging 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks. Reflecting on the setback, he admitted, "At the time, I definitely didn’t know. But looking back, I did feel a certain way."

When questioned about the thrombosis, Wembanyama shared insights into his diagnosis and recovery process. "It’s something really hard. I’m not going to lie and say it is easy. But I can say I was ready for it," he noted, highlighting the importance of being prepared for injuries as a professional athlete. He also stressed the comprehensive care he's receiving: "There’s many more things than surgery when you go to a hospital for a blood clot," while refraining from divulging specific details of his medical record.

The French center acknowledged experiencing symptoms that prompted him to seek medical advice. "I had symptoms, so I kind of looked into it before. I wouldn’t say I was shocked, but to hear from the mouth of professionals is different, for sure," he explained. Despite the challenges, Wembanyama remains optimistic about the long-term impact of this experience. "Unfortunately, most of us need something like that to happen to them, to realize some things. In the long run, it’s going to be good for me," he concluded.

Turning to the possibility of playing for France in EuroBasket 2025, Wembanyama expressed uncertainty. "I don’t know if it’s realistic," he confessed regarding joining the team under coach Frederic Fauthoux, citing "a lot of uncertainties." France is scheduled to compete in Katowice against Belgium, Slovenia, Israel, Poland, and Iceland between August 28 and September 4, with the aim of securing a spot in the knockout stage in Riga.