Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs face elevated expectations entering the 2025-26 NBA campaign. However, the one-time All-Star center is embracing the mounting pressure, boldly defining what he believes would constitute success.
San Antonio posted a 34-48 record last season despite Wembanyama’s sophomore year being cut short by blood clots in his right shoulder after just 46 appearances. That marked a 12-win increase from the 7-foot-4 big man’s rookie campaign (22-60).
Even so, the Spurs have now missed the playoffs in six straight seasons, their longest drought in franchise history. But with a revamped supporting cast and a potentially improved bill of health, Wembanyama is optimistic that his squad can take another major step forward.
What Does Victor Wembanyama Expect From the Spurs in the 2025-26 NBA Season?
When asked about San Antonio’s goal for the upcoming campaign after Monday’s practice, Wembanyama didn’t hesitate to outline his postseason aspirations.
“Success would be getting into the playoffs and not [the] play-in [tournament], so I guess that means sixth seed,” Wembanyama said.
ESPN has the Spurs’ projected victory total set at 41.8, around an eight-win jump. However, a 42-40 mark would have been good for just a ninth-place Western Conference finish last season and a win-or-go-home play-in matchup for a chance at the eighth seed.
A top-six placement in 2026 would likely require San Antonio to finish ahead of four of the Lakers, Clippers, Timberwolves, Warriors, Grizzlies, and Mavericks, outside the West’s presumed top three (Thunder, Nuggets, Rockets).
The Spurs added a proven backup center behind Wembanyama over the offseason in Luke Kornet, who brings along recent NBA championship experience (2024). They also have two incoming lottery selections, a dynamic guard in 2025 No. 2 pick Dylan Harper and a two-way wing in No. 14 pick Carter Bryant.
Wembanyama’s co-star De’Aaron Fox is dealing with a right hamstring strain that is expected to keep him sidelined to begin the regular season, possibly into early November. Still, between internal development from Wembanyama and 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, and bolstered frontcourt depth, San Antonio could be poised for immediate improvement.
The team should be able to capitalize on its speed and athleticism from the get-go, with Wembanyama’s interior dominance on both ends single-handedly propelling it to some victories. That said, the West’s daunting gauntlet may make it difficult for the French phenom to lead his squad firmly beyond the 2026 play-in picture.
The Spurs’ highly anticipated regular-season slate begins on Wednesday when they visit the Anthony Davis-led Mavericks in a battle between Texas-based squads.
