### Spurs' Victor Wembanyama Set to Make Highly Anticipated Return in NBA Cup Semifinals Against Thunder The San Antonio Spurs are gearing up for a crucial NBA Cup semifinal matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, with star center Victor Wembanyama expected to return after a 12-game absence due to a calf injury. This game is particularly significant as it marks Wembanyama's first appearance since November 14, and the Spurs aim to upset the Thunder, who have been dominant this season with a record of 24-1, tying the best start in NBA history. The Spurs, currently at 17-7, have shown resilience, winning 9 of their last 12 games without Wembanyama, but his return could be a game-changer for the team as they seek to advance to the finals [https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/live/nba-cup-semifinals-spurs-look-to-upset-thunder-in-victor-wembanyamas-return-after-knicks-beat-magic-213000452.html][https://www.apnews.com/article/spurs-victor-wembanyama-nba-cup-797dfc8436f73df8077e581202e9ca9c]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation and Expectations 1. **Wembanyama's Injury and Return**: - Victor Wembanyama has been sidelined for 12 games due to a strained left calf. - He is listed as probable for the semifinal game against the Thunder, indicating a strong likelihood of his return [https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/victor-wembanyama-news-surfaces-before-spurs-thunder-nba-cup-semifinals-11207602][https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/news-is-victor-wembanyama-playing-tonight-against-okc-thunder-huge-update-spurs-superstar-s-status-nba-cup-semifinal-dec-13]. 2. **Impact on the Spurs**: - The Spurs have performed well without Wembanyama, holding a 9-3 record in his absence. - His return is expected to bolster the team's performance, especially against a formidable opponent like the Thunder [https://www.si.com/nba/thunder/onsi/news/victor-wembanyama-likely-restricted-vs-okc-thunder][https://www.kens5.com/article/sports/nba/spurs/wemby-wembanyama-injury-status-thunder-okc-nba-cup-spurs-san-antonio/273-24da89f6-fa82-4ad2-a500-28b87e461d62]. 3. **Thunder's Current Form**: - The Oklahoma City Thunder are on a franchise-record 16-game winning streak, averaging a victory margin of 20.8 points during this stretch. - They are looking to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the NBA Cup finals [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/victor_wembanyama_returns_as_spurs_face_thunder_in_nba_cup_semis/s1_17045_43197983][https://www.click2houston.com/sports/2025/12/12/spurs-victor-wembanyama-set-to-return-for-nba-cup-semifinals-vs-thunder-after-12-game-absence]. ### Key Data and Statistics - **Wembanyama's Season Averages**: - Points: **26.2** - Rebounds: **12.9** - **Spurs' Record**: - With Wembanyama: **8-4** - Without Wembanyama: **9-3** - **Thunder's Record**: **24-1**, matching the best start in NBA history [https://www.apnews.com/article/spurs-victor-wembanyama-nba-cup-797dfc8436f73df8077e581202e9ca9c][https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/spurs_announce_victor_wembanyama_news_after_win_against_lakers/s1_17615_43189493]. ### Conclusion: Anticipation Builds for a Thrilling Semifinal In summary, the return of Victor Wembanyama is a pivotal moment for the San Antonio Spurs as they prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Cup semifinals. His presence on the court could significantly influence the outcome of the game, especially against a team that has been performing at an elite level. The stakes are high, and both teams are eager to secure a place in the finals, making this matchup one of the most anticipated events of the season. 1. **Wembanyama's return is crucial for the Spurs' chances**. 2. **The Thunder are a formidable opponent with a historic record**. 3. **The outcome will determine who advances to the finals** [https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/article/spurs-likely-to-get-victor-wembanyama-back-for-saturdays-nba-cup-semifinal-vs-thunder-183216209.html][https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/san-antonio-spurs/news/victor-wembanyama-playing-lakers-final-status-spurs/8107c0a042eabc50dd4c659b].