Nikola Jokic Gets Honest About Victor Wembanyama After France-Serbia Clash
Nikola Jokic weighed in on a potential rivalry with Victor Wembanyama and his future NBA potential after Serbia defeated France.
As the NBA season looms, star players Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama took part in an international friendly matchup between Serbia and France. Jokic, the Denver Nuggets' MVP contender, led his team with a near triple-double of 20 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, securing a 90-87 victory over Wembanyama's France. Conversely, the San Antonio Spurs' 7-foot-4 center had a less-than-impressive game, tallying just 10 points, four rebounds, and six turnovers during 24 minutes of play.
Following the match, Jokic offered his perspective on Wembanyama's potential in the NBA. "But Victor definitely has an opportunity to be the most unique, the most basketball player that you've ever seen. It only depends on him how well he's gonna fit, how well he's gonna work hard, how well he's gonna get to his spots, treat his body well," Jokic stated at a media session. He emphasized that Wembanyama has the potential to be the best ever, but it all depends on his dedication and hard work.
Jokic also clarified that he doesn't view Wembanyama as a basketball rival, despite their status as two of the best players in the world. He sees their encounters as unique opportunities, considering Wembanyama's exceptional skills and personality. The French center did make a highlight block against Jokic during the friendly game.
Both Serbia and France had mixed performances in the friendly match, with fellow French player Rudy Gobert, an NBA star for the Minnesota Timberwolves, also struggling. Despite Wembanyama's subpar game, he showcased a remarkable highlight block on a Jokic layup attempt.
Looking ahead to the upcoming NBA season, Jokic and Wembanyama are eager to start fresh with their respective teams. The Denver Nuggets were eliminated from the NBA Playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the San Antonio Spurs suffered a heartbreaking loss in the NBA Finals to the New York Knicks. Both All-Star players were among the top three contenders for the NBA MVP Award, with Jokic finishing second and Wembanyama third.
Utah Jazz star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won the award, but Jokic and Wembanyama remain favorites for the 2027 NBA MVP and are expected to continue their dominance in the sport with their impressive careers on track to be extraordinary.
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