Jokic Hits Clutch Shot Over Wembanyama After Blocked Sombor Shuffle

The two NBA superstars faced off in a thrilling overtime battle between the Nuggets and Spurs.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:28pm

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In a highly anticipated matchup between Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama, the two stars went head-to-head in a close overtime game between the Nuggets and Spurs. Jokic hit a clutch shot over Wembanyama late in the game, redeeming himself after Wembanyama had blocked his signature Sombor Shuffle shot in a previous meeting between the two. The game showcased the incredible talent and competitiveness of the two players, who are considered among the best in the NBA.

Why it matters

The matchup between Jokic and Wembanyama is one of the most compelling individual rivalries in the NBA today, pitting the league's reigning MVP against a rising superstar who is poised to change the game. Their battles on the court have become must-see events, as fans get to witness two transcendent players with vastly different styles compete at the highest level.

The details

In the final minute of overtime, with the Nuggets leading by two, Jokic and Wembanyama went one-on-one. Jokic drove hard to the elbow, spun away from a second defender, and hit a fadeaway jumper over the outstretched arms of the 7'5" Wembanyama. This came after Wembanyama had blocked Jokic's signature Sombor Shuffle shot in a previous meeting between the two, a play that had stuck with Jokic. The game featured high-level strategy, with both coaches making adjustments to try to gain an advantage, as well as several hustle plays and controversial officiating that added to the drama.

  • On Jan. 3, 2025, Wembanyama blocked Jokic's Sombor Shuffle shot during a game between the two.
  • The latest matchup between Jokic and Wembanyama took place on April 4, 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The reigning NBA MVP and one of the most skilled big men in the league, known for his unorthodox and highly effective scoring moves like the Sombor Shuffle.

Victor Wembanyama

The highly touted French prospect who was the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, and is considered a generational talent due to his combination of size, skill, and athleticism.

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What they’re saying

“If you guys remember two years ago or whatever, he actually blocked the same type of shot. ... I kind of threw it away, and we lost the game. So I think it was nothing different (this time). Maybe I just created a little more space. Who knows?”

— Nikola Jokic

“Let it fly and enjoy the moment. And hopefully it's gonna go in.”

— Nikola Jokic

“The crowd is into it. The referees are into it. The benches are into it. So the theater is there.”

— Cam Johnson, Nuggets Player

“You're not gonna see two people like this in many generations.”

— David Adelman, Nuggets Coach

“Looking forward to doing that again.”

— Victor Wembanyama

What’s next

The two teams could potentially meet in the playoffs this season, as Wembanyama and the Spurs are making their first postseason appearance after an expedited rebuild. A playoff series between Jokic and Wembanyama would be highly anticipated, as it would provide more opportunities for the two stars to go head-to-head.

The takeaway

The matchup between Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama has become one of the most compelling individual rivalries in the NBA. Their contrasting styles and competitive spirits make for must-see basketball, and their battles on the court have the potential to shape the league's future for years to come.