Spurs Send Strong Message on NBA’s Punishment for Victor Wembanyama in Game 5

The San Antonio Spurs are awaiting word on whether Victor Wembanyama will be suspended for Game 5 versus the Minnesota Timberwolves following the star’s ejection. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson labeled the idea of a possible suspension as “ridiculous.”

“There was zero intent,” Johnson told reporters on May 10, 2026, per The Athletic’s Jared Weiss. “They did what they did because of the outcome of the play. So be it.

“But to have anything on top of that, I think, would be ridiculous.”

Wembanyama was ejected in the second quarter after hitting Wolves center Naz Reid with an elbow to the neck. The NBA will review the play and determine if Wembanyama will receive further discipline following the ejection.

“The league will review the Wembanyama play tomorrow,” San Antonio Express News’ Jeff McDonald explained in a May 10, message on X. “The question now is whether he will be available for Game 5.”

Here’s what you need to know about Wembanyama’s status for Game 5.


Wemby on Physicality: ‘I Have (Had) Enough of Players Trying to Make It a Physical Game’

Given the series is now tied at 2-2, Wembanyama’s status is important for a pivotal Game 5 in San Antonio. Wembanyama was clearly frustrated by the Wolves’ physicality and how the referees were officiating the game.

Earlier this season, Wembanyama discussed his increased efforts to be more physical amid opponent’s physicality.

“I mean, where that’s coming from (is) I have (had) enough of players trying to make it a physical game all the time,” Wembanyama explained during a March 8, interview with NBC Sports.

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“So, dominating physically is the best answer to that. So, that’s where it’s coming from. And also, man, I’m pissed. I don’t know,” Wembanyama added.

“… If you’re going against a guy that’s stronger than you, if he’s pushing as hard as you, I mean, you’re just not going to win. So, I’m not stronger than everybody, but I will get there.”


Spurs Center Luke Kornet on Victor Wembanyama: ‘He’s Got a Pretty Impressive Array of Cuts’

Wembanyama’s teammates are taking notice of the punishment Wemby takes each game. At 7-foot-4, 235 pounds, Wembanyama is a unique target for opponents.

“He’s got a pretty impressive array of cuts and lacerations,” Spurs big man Luke Kornet explained to San Antonio Spurs on SI’s Matt Guzman. “Obviously, he’s got a lot of limbs. A lot of targets.

“The way he plays, he’s always pretty cut up. It happens. He plays hard and aggressive, so obviously guys are trying to grab and grab him. He does a pretty good job of trying to play through it.”


Timberwolves vs. Spurs: San Antonio Are 10.5-Point Favorites Over Minnesota in the NBA Odds for Game 5

While a suspension is not off the table, it would be a surprise if the NBA doubled down on disciplining Wembanyama given his star status. Vegas appears to be expecting Wemby to suit up in Game 5.

The Spurs are 10.5-point favorites against the Timberwolves for Game 5 on Tuesday, May 12, per FanDuel. The spread would move towards the Wolves if Wembanyama misses Game 5.

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