Wembanyama Dominates 125-92 Season Opener

Victor Wembanyama returned from shoulder surgery related to deep vein thrombosis and scored 40 points with 15 rebounds, three blocks and no turnovers on 15-of-21 shooting in 30 minutes to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 125-92 season-opening win over the Dallas Mavericks. He set the Spurs franchise record for most points in a regular-season opener and drew immediate MVP buzz. Wembanyama said the health scare changed his outlook and credited a transformative offseason that included training with Hakeem Olajuwon and Kevin Garnett. The Spurs led by as many as 33 points and never trailed in the second half, with Stephon Castle adding 22 points and rookie Dylan Harper contributing 15. Dallas rookie and No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg was scoreless in the first half but finished with a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double, leaving the Mavericks with adjustments to make after the opener.