Nikola Jokić Predicts Victor Wembanyama Will Dominate NBA

The Nuggets star believes the Spurs phenom is 'changing basketball' and will soon 'hold the entire league in a chokehold'.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a recent interview, three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić made a strong admission about San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, saying he's glad he'll likely retire before Wembanyama 'holds the entire league in a chokehold'. Jokić praised the 23-year-old Frenchman, who is in his third NBA season, as a player who is 'changing basketball' with his dominant two-way play.

Why it matters

Wembanyama is already a two-time All-Star and was named Rookie of the Year in 2023-2024, and is widely seen as a future face of the NBA. Jokić's comments highlight just how much of an impact the young center is having on the league at such an early stage of his career.

The details

Wembanyama is currently averaging 23.8 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 3.0 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game. He has already recorded 10 blocks in a single game twice in his young career, showcasing his elite defensive abilities. Wembanyama also has the ball-handling skills of a guard and can efficiently make jump shots despite his 7'4" frame.

  • Wembanyama is in his third NBA season as of the 2026-2027 season.
  • Jokić made these comments about Wembanyama in March 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokić

A three-time NBA MVP who is currently playing in his 11th NBA season with the Denver Nuggets.

Victor Wembanyama

A 23-year-old French center who is in his third NBA season with the San Antonio Spurs. He was named Rookie of the Year in 2023-2024 and is a two-time NBA All-Star.

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What they’re saying

“He is changing basketball. I'm glad that I'll probably retire before Wemby holds the entire league in a chokehold.”

— Nikola Jokić (profootballnetwork.com)

What’s next

Wembanyama will look to continue his dominant play and lead the Spurs to the playoffs, while Jokić aims to win his fourth MVP award before retiring in the near future.

The takeaway

Jokić's comments highlight the immense potential of Victor Wembanyama, who is already being viewed as a future face of the NBA. The young Spurs star's combination of size, skill, and defensive prowess make him a uniquely dominant force that could soon take over the league.