Jokic Marvels at Wembanyama's Unique Skillset After Overtime Thriller

The Nuggets star praised the Spurs rookie phenom's all-around dominance in a high-scoring matchup.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:25am

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In a thrilling overtime game between the Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs, Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama put on a show, with Jokic finishing with 40 points, 13 assists, and 8 rebounds, while Wembanyama had 34 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 blocks. After the game, Jokic expressed immense praise for Wembanyama's rare skillset, describing the Spurs rookie as the 'most unique player on both sides of the floor' who challenges opponents in so many ways.

Why it matters

The matchup between Jokic and Wembanyama is an early preview of what could be a potential playoff clash between the Nuggets and Spurs. Jokic's glowing assessment of Wembanyama's talent underscores just how special the 19-year-old phenom is, and the challenges he will present for even the league's elite players and teams.

The details

Jokic and Wembanyama went back-and-forth throughout the overtime thriller, with Jokic finishing with a stat line of 40 points, 13 assists, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks, while Wembanyama had 34 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 blocks, and 1 steal. Jokic praised Wembanyama's unique skillset, highlighting his ability to shoot, handle the ball, and protect the rim as a 7'4" player. The Spurs had seven players score in double figures, including Stephon Castle (20 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds), Julian Champagnie (18 points, 5 rebounds), and Devin Vassell (18 points, 5 rebounds).

  • The game between the Nuggets and Spurs took place on Saturday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The superstar center for the Denver Nuggets, known for his all-around game and playmaking ability.

Victor Wembanyama

The highly touted 19-year-old rookie for the San Antonio Spurs, considered one of the most unique and talented players in the NBA with his rare combination of size, skill, and athleticism.

Stephon Castle

A key contributor for the San Antonio Spurs, scoring 20 points with 9 assists and 5 rebounds in the overtime loss.

Julian Champagnie

A Spurs player who had 18 points and 5 rebounds in the game against the Nuggets.

Devin Vassell

A Spurs player who scored 18 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in the overtime matchup.

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What they’re saying

“He's the most unique player on both sides of the floor. He challenges you so many ways defensively because his ability to shoot the ball. He's one dribble at the basket dunking the ball, lob threat. If you're one millisecond late its probably a basket. He challenges the whole league to put bodies on him and push him around.”

— Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Superstar

What’s next

The Spurs will look to bounce back in their next game, hosting the Philadelphia 76ers on April 6th at 8 p.m. ET.

The takeaway

Nikola Jokic's glowing praise of Victor Wembanyama's rare skillset and all-around dominance underscores just how special the 19-year-old Spurs rookie is, and the immense challenges he will present even for the league's elite players and teams in the years to come.