Jokic Believes Wembanyama Will Continue to Change the NBA

The Nuggets star praises the Spurs' young phenom after their high-scoring matchup.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:04am

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In a blockbuster matchup between the Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs, superstars Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama put on a show, with Jokic tallying 40 points, 8 rebounds, and 13 assists, and Wembanyama recording 34 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 blocks. After the game, Jokic, a three-time MVP, praised Wembanyama, saying the young Frenchman has the opportunity to become the "most unique basketball player to ever play the game" and will continue to "change the league, change basketball."

Why it matters

Jokic's high praise for the 20-year-old Wembanyama underscores the immense potential and impact the Spurs' rising star is already having on the NBA. As one of the league's best players acknowledges Wembanyama's greatness, it further cements the young center's status as a transformative talent who is shaping the future of the game.

The details

In the overtime thriller, Jokic and Wembanyama went head-to-head, showcasing their elite skills as two of the premier big men in the NBA. Jokic's dominant performance helped the Nuggets secure the victory, but it was Wembanyama's all-around brilliance that caught the attention of the reigning MVP. Jokic has been vocal in his admiration for Wembanyama, dating back to their first matchup, and he continues to believe the Spurs phenom will have a profound impact on the league as his career progresses.

  • The Nuggets and Spurs faced off on Saturday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The three-time NBA MVP and one of the best centers in the league, currently playing for the Denver Nuggets.

Victor Wembanyama

The 20-year-old rising star center for the San Antonio Spurs, who is already being hailed as a transformative talent with the potential to change the game of basketball.

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What they’re saying

“I think the first time I played against him, I told you guys he was gonna change the league, change basketball. I still obviously think that. He has an opportunity to be the most unique basketball player to ever play the game. Is it fun? Yes. It's fun against everybody.”

— Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Center

The takeaway

Nikola Jokic's continued praise of Victor Wembanyama underscores the young Spurs star's immense potential and impact on the NBA. As one of the league's best players acknowledges Wembanyama's greatness, it further cements his status as a transformative talent who is shaping the future of the game.