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Wembanyama's 65th Game Secures Award Eligibility

PUBLISHED Apr 10, 2026, 11:26 PM ET

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San Antonio — Victor Wembanyama scored 40 points and grabbed 13 rebounds Friday as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Dallas Mavericks 139-120 in what was reported as his 65th game, meeting the NBA's minimum games requirement for season awards. He played the required minutes after returning from a recent left rib contusion and helped the Spurs secure a top Western Conference seed. His appearance and performance make him eligible for Defensive Player of the Year, All-NBA and All-Defensive First Team consideration under league rules, and preserve an MVP candidacy this season. The Spurs were cited as clinching the No. 2 seed this week; Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg scored 33 in the loss, highlighting the Mavericks’ depleted rotation during the late regular-season matchup.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Season opener: Wembanyama scored 40 points against Dallas earlier in the season.
Monday: Wembanyama suffered a left rib contusion during a 115-102 win over Philadelphia.
Wednesday: He missed San Antonio’s 112-101 victory over Portland due to the contusion.
Friday: He returned and posted 40 points and 13 rebounds in a 139-120 Spurs win over Dallas, marking his 65th game.
Following the game: Wembanyama became officially eligible for season awards and the Spurs solidified a top seed.

News Intelligence

Victor Wembanyama's return from injury and standout performance can inspire us all. His dedication to the game, even after a painful setback, shows the value of perseverance. If you're a Spurs fan, his eligibility for season awards could mean a more exciting end to the season.

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Who Benefited

Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs benefited directly: Wembanyama secured award eligibility with a 40-point, 13-rebound performance in his 65th game, strengthening the team's postseason positioning and individual award prospects while contributing to a regular-season victory.

Who Impacted

The Dallas Mavericks suffered the loss as several regulars were absent or rested; despite rookie Cooper Flagg’s 33-point effort, the team’s depleted lineup contributed to the 139-120 defeat and weakened their late-season momentum.

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