'An ugly concussion:' Leading neuroscientist weighs in on Victor Wembanyama’s brain injury and NBA protocols

Victor Wembanyama, the 7-foot-4 San Antonio Spurs center, suffered a concussion in Game 2 of the Western Conference first round on April 22, 2026, when his chin slammed into the hardwood floor, causing his head to bounce aggressively off the court. Chris Nowinski, founding CEO of the Concussion & CTE Foundation, described it as 'an ugly concussion' and cautioned against rushing Wembanyama back too soon. Nowinski, who was attending the annual Mackey-White Health and Safety meetings with NFL and NBPA representatives, weighed in on the incident and NBA concussion protocols.