Victor Wembanyama sets expectations very high, predicting Spurs to reach highest seed since 2017


San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama he has grown to become one of the leaders of a young Spurs side. Ahead of the 2025-26 season, the Frenchman spoke to the media on Monday where he set expectations sky-high for himself and Spurs.

He predicted 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 making the playoffs and not the play-in,” said Victor Wembanyama (from 9:20). “So I guess that means the sixth seed.”

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This will be coach Mitch Johnson's first full season as head coach. He succeeded the legendary Gregg Popovich, who stepped down from the coaching role to become president of basketball operations.

His goal will be to guide the Spurs to their first playoffs since 2019, when they lost in the first round to the Denver Nuggets.

Last season will be in the rearview mirror after a wonderful sophomore season ended early due to injury. He was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder after the All-Star game. He then missed the rest of the season as the Spurs faltered and missed the postseason again.

He marked his return during the 2025 preseason and showed glimpses of his potential. He helped the Spurs defeat the Pacers 133-104 on Friday to end an undefeated 5-0 preseason. 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 the star guard By Aaron Fox and young stars Dylan Harper i Castle of Estefonto become dark horses in the West.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) forward Keldon Johnson (3) hits his chest before the game against the Indiana Pacers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory credit: Scott Wachter-Images ImagesSan Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) forward Keldon Johnson (3) hits his chest before the game against the Indiana Pacers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory credit: Scott Wachter-Images Images
San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) forward Keldon Johnson (3) hits his chest before the game against the Indiana Pacers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory credit: Scott Wachter-Images Images

He is expected by fans and analysts to elevate his defensive game. His offensive production will also improve as he showed in the preseason.

However, while he could have another run at individual honors, success will be defined by how well he leads the Spurs to a level of success last seen in the Tim Duncan era.