Nikola Jokic Says Wemby Could Be 'Best Ever,' Praises Spurs Star Ahead of FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić had high praise for San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama after they faced off in a friendly international matchup on Thursday.

"He's definitely a special opponent just because how unique he is as a player, as a person," Jokić told reporters. "I don't see it as a rivalry. Do I take it a little bit more? No, I think I play every game the same way. But Victor definitely has the opportunity to be the most unique basketball player that we've ever seen. It only depends only on him, how well he's gonna fit, how well he's gonna work hard, how well he's gonna get to his spots, how well he's gonna treat his body. He definitely has the opportunity to be the best ever."

Jokić and Serbia ended up taking down Wembanyama and France by the final score of 90-87 in a friendly competition as both squads prepare for the start of FIBA World Cup European qualifiers.

Jokić finished with 20 points, nine rebounds and eight assists while shooting 5-of-13 from the field. The three-time NBA MVP also hit nine of his 12 free throws.

Wembanyama recorded 10 points, five rebounds and two assists. He shot 3-of-9 from the field and 1-of-6 from behind the arc.

The 22-year-old has already established himself as one of the top players in the NBA, as he's coming off a 2025-26 campaign with San Antonio in which he earned unanimous Defensive Player of the Year honors and received an All-NBA First Team selection.

Wembanyama averaged 25.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 3.1 blocks per game on 51.2/34.9/82.7 shooting splits. He helped the Spurs compile a 62-20 record before advancing to the NBA Finals.

While San Antonio ultimately fell short of a championship, the organization's future is still bright with Wembanyama leading the way.