Spurs' Victor Wembanyama falls on face vs. Blazers, suffers concussion

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, who is in the concussion protocol. was out for the second half of a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 2 of a first-round playoff series Tuesday in San Antonio. Photo by John G. Mabanglo/EPA

April 22 (UPI) -- San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama slammed his face on the floor and sustained a concussion in a playoff loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.

Wembanyama was hurt about three minutes into the second quarter of the 106-103 setback in Game 2 of the first-round series Tuesday in San Antonio. He did not return.

"I just know he has a concussion and he's in the protocol," Spurs coach Mitch Johnson told reporters. "We'll obviously take the proper and appropriate steps."

The Blazers led 34-32 about nine minutes before halftime when guard De'Aaron Fox drove over half court and into the paint. He then turned back and passed to a trailing Wembanyama. The MVP candidate caught the pass, faked a shot and dribbled into the paint. He then tripped and fell face-first onto the court, losing the ball.

Wembanyama's head bounced on the floor several times during the mishap. He remained on the floor, motionless for several seconds. He then ran back to the locker room.

Johnson said Wembanyama was not being examined for anything other than a concussion.

Wembanyama can resume gradual activity after 48 hours if his symptoms don't get worse. He requires clearance for the Spurs' doctor and league protocol director before he can return to the best-of-seven game series, which is tied 1-1.

Wembanyama totaled five points, four rebounds, a block and an assist in Game 2. Guard Stephon Castle led the Spurs with 18 points. Fox chipped in 17. Blazers guard Scoot Henderson scored a game-high 31 points.