Victor Wembanyama makes his feelings clear on relationship with Chris Paul amid improved second year

Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are a budding team beginning to trend in the right direction despite some recent struggles on the court. After finishing 22-60 for the second consecutive season in Wembanyama's rookie year, the Spurs were aggressive in the offseason, adding pieces to make a playoff push in 2024-25, one of which was veteran point guard Chris Paul.

Entering the season at 39 years old, Paul wasn't expected to be among the top scoring options on the team but presented an exciting pairing alongside Wembanyama as one of the best passers in NBA history. Paul has played a big role in San Antonio's offense, appearing as the starting point guard in each of their 41 games this season.

Paul's consistency has fit the Spurs' culture of consistency as they eye a return to the playoffs. They are 19-22 so far. Ahead of the 2025 NBA Paris Games in Wembanyama's home country, the Spurs big man discussed how Paul's veteran leadership has affected San Antonio's rise.

"I have progressed in knowing myself and my teammates," Wembanyama told The Athletic. "This is reflected in many areas, there are stats that are improving, others that are maintaining. We have progressed a lot thanks to (Harrison Barnes) and (Chris Paul). We are getting closer and closer to the recipe for winning."

Harrison Barnes was another veteran offseason acquisition for the Spurs, and like Paul, he has given the starting lineup consistent production in 41 starts. San Antonio currently sits 1.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns for the 10th seed and the final play-in spot.

Victor Wembanyama, Spurs continue struggles versus the Heat

The San Antonio Spurs continued their struggles versus the Miami Heat on Sunday, suffering their third consecutive loss. The Heat defeated San Antonio 128-107, handing the Spurs their sixth loss in their last seven games.

Despite an inefficient shooting night, Victor Wembanyama notched a 21-point, 10-rebound double-double on 8-for-18 shooting, connecting on three of his eight 3-point attempts. Kel'el Ware shined off the bench for Miami, scoring a game-high 25 points, along with eight rebounds, two assists, and two blocks.

Prior to their 1-6 stretch, the Spurs were trending upward, winning seven of 11 contests from Dec. 8 to Jan. 3.

The Spurs will face off against the Indiana Pacers on Thursday in Victor Wembanyama's Paris homecoming.