The NBA’s handling of concussions faced sharp criticism from one of its brightest stars on Sunday night. San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, returning from a one-game absence due to a concussion protocol, called the league’s process “very disappointing” after his team’s 114-93 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series.

The 7-foot-4 French phenom, who has drawn comparisons to NBA legends for his rare combination of size and skill, was placed in the concussion protocol after a frightening fall during Game 2 on April 22. Television replays showed Wembanyama tumbling face-first to the court after colliding with a Portland player, requiring assistance to leave the floor. He missed Game 3 as the Spurs fell to a 2-1 series deficit.

Wembanyama’s Return and Criticism

Wembanyama returned to the starting lineup on Sunday, contributing 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks in 34 minutes of action. But it was his postgame comments that dominated the conversation.

“It was very disappointing,” Wembanyama told reporters when asked about the concussion protocol. “I didn’t really appreciate the way it was handled. I understand the precautions, but there has to be a better way.”

The NBA’s concussion protocol requires players to undergo a series of tests and evaluations before being cleared to return. According to league rules, players must be symptom-free and pass a multi-step assessment conducted by team medical staff and an independent neurologist. The process typically takes a minimum of 24-48 hours, though some players have missed multiple games in recent seasons.

What Happened in Game 2

The incident occurred with 3:47 remaining in the second quarter of Game 2. Wembanyama was driving to the basket when he collided with Portland’s Jerami Grant, losing his balance and falling hard to the AT&T Center floor. He remained down for several minutes before being helped to the locker room. The Spurs initially listed him as “doubtful” to return, and he did not play in the second half.

After the game, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich told reporters that Wembanyama had been diagnosed with a concussion. “We’ll follow the protocol and make sure he’s 100% before he comes back,” Popovich said at the time. The team did not provide additional details about the evaluation process.

Playoff Implications

Wembanyama’s absence in Game 3 proved costly for San Antonio. The Spurs were outrebounded 52-41 and lost by 12 points, falling behind in the best-of-seven series. His return in Game 4 shifted the momentum, with the Spurs outscoring Portland by 21 points in the second half to even the series at 2-2.

“When he’s on the floor, everything is different,” said Spurs guard Devin Vassell, who scored 24 points in Game 4. “The way teams have to guard us, the way People can protect the rim—it changes the whole game.”

The series now shifts to Portland for Game 5 on Wednesday, April 29, with both teams fighting for a crucial 3-2 lead. Wembanyama is expected to play, but the Spurs have not ruled out additional precautions given his recent injury.

League Protocol Under Scrutiny

Wembanyama’s criticism comes at a time when the NBA has faced increasing scrutiny over its handling of player health and safety. The league’s concussion protocol was last updated in 2021, with changes including mandatory independent neurological evaluations and a requirement that players be symptom-free for at least 24 hours before returning to play.

Although, the protocol has been criticized for its lack of transparency. Teams are not required to disclose specific details about a player’s symptoms or the timeline of their recovery. In Wembanyama’s case, the Spurs only confirmed that he had been placed in the protocol and would miss Game 3, with no further updates until he was cleared to return.

“There’s a balance between player safety and transparency,” said Dr. Margot Putukian, a sports medicine physician who has consulted with the NBA on concussion protocols. “Players want to grasp what’s happening with their bodies, and fans want to know when their favorite players will return. The league could do a better job of communicating without compromising medical privacy.”

What’s Next for Wembanyama and the Spurs

The Spurs will travel to Portland for Game 5 on Wednesday, April 29, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT (10:00 p.m. ET). A win would give San Antonio a 3-2 series lead and the opportunity to close out the series at home in Game 6.

Wembanyama’s availability is not expected to be an issue, but the Spurs may monitor his playing time closely. In Game 4, he logged 34 minutes—his highest total since returning from the concussion protocol.

For the NBA, Wembanyama’s comments could reignite discussions about the concussion protocol. The league has not yet responded to his criticism, but a spokesperson told Archysport that player safety remains a top priority.

How to Follow the Series

Fans can watch Game 5 on TNT in the United States or NBA League Pass internationally. For real-time updates, follow the official accounts of the San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers on X (formerly Twitter). The NBA’s official injury report, released two hours before each game, will provide the latest on Wembanyama’s status.

What do you think about the NBA’s concussion protocol? Should the league provide more transparency about player injuries? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.