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Spurs Take 3-1 Lead as Wembanyama Returns, Decries Protocol

4/27/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Wembanyama Leads Spurs

The Spurs beat the Trail Blazers 114-93 in Game 4, taking a 3-1 series lead.
Victor Wembanyama returned after missing Game 3 and posted 27 points, 11 rebounds, seven blocks and a plus-28 rating in 34 minutes.
He called the concussion-protocol handling very disappointing and urged reporters to revisit it after the season.
Wembanyama praised Spurs’ doctors, noting the injury occurred in Game 2 when he left after 12 minutes, triggering the protocol.

Summary

Wembanyama Cleared

The NBA concussion protocol mandates a 24-hour wait, progressive cardio, non-contact drills and baseline neuro checks.
Victor Wembanyama started cardio Wednesday night, added activity Thursday-Saturday, and was cleared Sunday.
Spurs doctors consulted a league policy director at each step, giving the medical staff final sign-off.
Coach Mitch Johnson said the Spurs will keep their identity and game plan unchanged regardless of clearance.

History

Historical Context

The NBA adopted its first formal concussion policy on 12 December 2011, requiring immediate removal, 24-hour monitoring and baseline neuro-cognitive testing—mirroring earlier moves by the NHL in 1997 and MLB in 2007. Victor Wembanyama’s 27-point, 11-rebound game was cleared under that protocol, showing how the league’s safety rules now govern star injuries.

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Wembanyama Leads Spurs

The Spurs beat the Trail Blazers 114-93 in Game 4, taking a 3-1 series lead.
Victor Wembanyama returned after missing Game 3 and posted 27 points, 11 rebounds, seven blocks and a plus-28 rating in 34 minutes.
He called the concussion-protocol handling very disappointing and urged reporters to revisit it after the season.
Wembanyama praised Spurs’ doctors, noting the injury occurred in Game 2 when he left after 12 minutes, triggering the protocol.

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