Victor Wembanyama cleared for game 4 return as Spurs look to take control vs. Trail Blazers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The San Antonio Spurs received a major boost ahead of Game 4 in their first-round matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers, as Victor Wembanyama has officially been cleared to return from the NBA’s concussion protocol.

Wembanyama’s return comes at a pivotal moment in the series. The Spurs currently hold a 2–1 lead after an impressive Game 3 comeback victory, achieved without their All-Star centerpiece. The 7-foot-4 phenom had been sidelined since suffering a concussion in Game 2, when he hit his face hard on the floor during a loss that briefly shifted momentum toward Portland.

Despite pushing to suit up for Game 3, Wembanyama was not medically cleared in time. San Antonio instead leaned on its depth, with Luke Kornet stepping into the starting lineup and rookie Carter Bryant providing valuable minutes off the bench. Their collective effort helped stabilize the interior and allowed the Spurs to rally in the second half, reclaiming control of the series.

Now, with Wembanyama set to return, San Antonio regains its most impactful two-way player. His presence alters the game on both ends of the floor—protecting the rim defensively while stretching defenses with his scoring versatility. Against a Portland team still searching for consistency, his return could tilt the series further in the Spurs’ favor.

For the Trail Blazers, the challenge becomes significantly tougher. Containing Wembanyama requires physicality and discipline, especially given his ability to score inside and out. Portland showed resilience in Game 2 but struggled to maintain that level of execution in Game 3, particularly down the stretch.

Game 4 now presents a critical juncture. A Spurs win would give them a commanding 3–1 series lead heading back to San Antonio, while a Blazers victory would even the series and restore pressure on the higher seed.

All eyes will be on Wembanyama as he returns to action. If he can quickly regain rhythm and avoid lingering effects from the concussion, the Spurs will be in a strong position to seize control and move one step closer to advancing.