Nuggets' Jokic Admits Relief Over Retiring Before Wembanyama's Prime

Veteran center says Spurs' rising star is "changing basketball" and he's glad to avoid facing him at his best.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic acknowledged that he is relieved to be nearing retirement before having to face off against San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama in his prime. Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP, said Wembanyama is "changing basketball" with his unique combination of size, skill, and defensive dominance.

Why it matters

Jokic is widely considered the best player in the NBA today, but the emergence of the 21-year-old Wembanyama as a generational talent has the potential to shift the league's power dynamics in the coming years. Jokic's admission highlights the challenge facing even elite veterans as the next wave of superstar big men arrives.

The details

In a recent appearance on the Serbian basketball podcast X&O's Chat, Jokic bluntly stated that he is "glad" he will likely retire before having to face Wembanyama at the height of his powers. Wembanyama, in his third NBA season, is already averaging 23.9 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and a league-leading 3.0 blocks per game for the surging Spurs.

  • Wembanyama is in his third NBA season (2025-26).
  • Jokic made his comments on the X&O's Chat podcast.

The players

Nikola Jokic

A three-time NBA MVP and the best player in the league today, currently with the Denver Nuggets.

Victor Wembanyama

A 21-year-old phenom in his third NBA season, playing for the San Antonio Spurs and emerging as a generational talent.

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What they’re saying

“He is changing basketball. He's a rim protector, he's shooting threes. He is unique. I'm glad that I'll probably retire before Wemby holds the entire league in a chokehold.”

— Nikola Jokic (X&O's Chat)

What’s next

The Spurs and Nuggets are set to face off twice more this regular season, giving Jokic one final chance to compete against Wembanyama before potentially retiring.

The takeaway

Jokic's admission underscores the profound impact Wembanyama is having on the NBA, with even the league's current best players acknowledging the challenge of facing the young phenom. This generational shift in talent could reshape the league's power structure in the coming years.