Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic starred in a FIBA-worthy showdown during a two-game exhibition series as France and Serbia prepare for the latest window of the FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers. The matchup between the San Antonio Spurs center and the Denver Nuggets big man is rapidly becoming a must-watch duel.
The 22-year-old Wembanyama acknowledged that going up against the 31-year-old Jokic is always valuable, noting that he constantly learns from those challenges. “You always learn when you play against Jokic. You always catch some stuff and smarter moves on the court in those duels with him,” said the Defensive Player of the Year, as quoted in a report from BasketNews.
Serbia drew first blood with a 90-87 victory in Belgrade on Thursday. Jokic was masterful with a near triple-double of 20 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Wembanyama posted 10 points, four rebounds, and six turnovers.
France exacts revenge
On Sunday, Les Bleus exacted revenge with a 91-90 win in Orleans, courtesy of a game-winner by Jaylen Hoard. Wembanyama recorded 18 points, five rebounds, and three blocks. Jokic remained dominant, tallying 34 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists.
Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs.
The clash showcased a great duel, though Jokic’s experience still showed as he commanded the floor at 100%, while a hungry Wembanyama continues to commit mistakes he can refine over time.
Last season, Wembanyama led San Antonio to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014, while Jokic and Denver were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Western Conference rivalry
San Antonio and Denver remain among the top contenders in the Western Conference, with Wembanyama and Jokic at the forefront of their respective teams. The two centers will not meet in the NBA until March at Frost Bank Center.
In the meantime, Wembanyama will try to carry France in his first return to the national team since the 2024 Paris Olympics. “Our plan is simple. We are going to Paris in a day or two, continue with our preparations, and then we play the qualifier games,” said the two-time All-Star.
