Victor Wembanyama reveals strong mindset during Spurs' final stretch

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Victor Wembanyama reveals strong mindset during Spurs' final stretch originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Lately, Victor Wembanyama has been battling a setback.

The San Antonio Spurs’ center experienced ankle soreness following a matchup against the Boston Celtics on March 10. Although Wembanyama turned in an impressive performance, producing 39 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks in a win over the Celtics, he was ruled out for the following game against the Denver Nuggets.

Heading into the Spurs’ Saturday night action against the Charlotte Hornets, Wembanyama was listed as questionable. Fortunately, he made his return. His performance then dissolved any concerns that fans had about his injury being worse than what was reported.

Following the game, Wembanyama made it clear that taking care of his physical health is key during this stretch run. However, he doesn’t expect his availability to be much of a concern as he has some strong personal goals in place.

"Right now, in my mind, is taking great care of my body cause I also want to win the MVP, and the DPOY,” Wembanyama said. “So I'm trying to press the gas from now until the end of the season."

Wembanyama is a clear candidate for the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award. For the third-straight season, he’s on pace to be the league’s blocks leader. 

During his rookie effort, Wembanyama made All-Defense but was runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year after appearing in 71 games. Last year, he missed the 65-game mark, which prevented him from winning the title then as well.

Wembanyama is close to missing the mark again this year, but he has clear plans to make it. The star center has a three-game cushion.

This season, Wembanyama has played in 51 games. He is shooting 50% from the field and 36% from three, averaging 24.2 points per game. 

Beyond his scoring, the star center is producing 11.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.0 steals, and 3.0 blocks. 

Wembanyama strengthened his case on Saturday by collecting 32 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and four blocks in a win over the Charlotte Hornets. 

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