San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell will miss the beginning of the 2024-25 NBA season as he continues recovering from offseason surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right foot, the team announced Friday. Vassell, 24, is currently participating in non-basketball activities, but his status won’t be updated until Nov. 1, meaning he’ll miss at least the first week of the regular season.
Vassell’s injury stems from a stress fracture in the third metatarsal of his right foot, which sidelined him late last season. The injury cut short what was shaping up to be a career year for the guard, as he averaged a personal-best 19.5 points, 4.1 assists, and shot 37.2% from beyond the arc. His absence will be a blow to a Spurs team looking to improve on last season’s 22-60 record, especially with Vassell seen as a key building block alongside Victor Wembanyama.
Vassell’s Road to Recovery
After missing the final eight games of the 2023-24 season, Vassell entered the offseason hoping to avoid surgery. Initially optimistic that rest and rehabilitation would be enough, Vassell ultimately had to undergo surgery in late summer, delaying his plans to be fully healthy for the start of the new season. The Spurs, however, are optimistic that Vassell could return to the lineup by early November.
“I want to play all 82 games next season,” Vassell said in April. “That’s my goal.” Unfortunately, that goal has already been dashed.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Devin Vassell, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Despite the setback, Vassell remains a key piece of the Spurs’ long-term plans, having signed a five-year, $135 million extension that kicks in this season. Once he returns, Vassell will be expected to provide significant scoring and playmaking as San Antonio builds around Wembanyama’s potential.
Spurs Prepare for Season Opener
In more positive news, Spurs centers Zach Collins and Charles Bassey are expected to be ready for the season opener on Oct. 24 against the Dallas Mavericks. Collins, who underwent shoulder surgery after dislocating it in the season finale, and Bassey, who tore his ACL last December, have both been cleared for training camp.
Collins played a significant role last season, averaging 11.2 points and 5.8 rebounds in 69 games. Bassey, in his limited role, averaged 3.3 points and four rebounds over 19 games.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Devin Vassell, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The Spurs are hopeful that with a healthy Vassell, Collins, and Bassey, they can compete at a higher level this season. As they continue to rebuild around Wembanyama and veteran guard Chris Paul, the team aims to make strides in their development and climb the Western Conference standings.
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