Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama exits with rib contusion

The Spurs were without Victor Wembanyama for the second half of Monday’s game vs. the 76ers after the star big man suffered a left rib contusion.

The team announced the injury during the game, with Wembanyama exiting after playing 16 minutes in the first half. According to Jared Weiss of The Athletic, the injury occurred when Wembanyama fell to the floor earlier in the game.

Despite the early exit, there’s some good news.

Because he logged at least 16 minutes, Monday’s appearance will count toward the NBA’s 65-game minimum for postseason awards eligibility.

Wembanyama has one other shortened appearance (17 minutes) that also qualifies, meaning he now needs to reach the 20-minute threshold in just one of San Antonio’s final three games to officially secure eligibility.

Before exiting, Wembanyama was productive in limited action, finishing with 17 points, five rebounds and three blocks. The Spurs were a plus-seven with him on the floor.

Assuming he meets the requirement, Wembanyama is widely considered the favorite for Defensive Player of the Year and is expected to earn All-NBA honors.

He has also entered the conversation as a potential MVP finalist.

But the focus will shift to his health in this, the final week of the regular season.