Victor Wembanyama on facing Nikola Jokic: ‘I learned a lot’

Wembanyama stated that playing against Jokic was an experience and that he learnt a lot, with more to come after viewing footage. The Spurs were easily defeated by the Nuggets, and Wemby could understand why they were NBA champions last season.

Victor Wembanyama faced probably his greatest NBA matchup in his career on Sunday night, the reigning NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. Despite Wembanyama’s strong effort, the San Antonio Spurs were defeated once more.

Wembanyama finished with 22 points, 11 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 6 steals, tying him for the second-best rookie performance in Spurs history. Despite this, the Spurs lost for the 12th game in a row, their third-worst record in franchise history.

Meanwhile, Jokic was his regular self, ending with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists, one assist shy of a triple-double.

“I believe I learned a lot.” When I view the film, I’ll learn much more. “I think it was a good experience, but it would have been better if we had won,” Wembanyama said of facing Jokic.

Wemby believes that playing against the reigning NBA champs demonstrated how far the Spurs have fallen.

“I see why they won. It’s a well-balanced team that seems to know each other well. “It’s a fantastic challenge,” remarked Wembanyama. “Every time we play them, there will be a lot of intensity.” What’s lovely about them is that everyone understands their duty. It’s a good group.”

‘Going to Change the Game’ – Nikola Jokic Praises Victor Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs were defeated by the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night, 132-120. Nikola Jokic showed why he is the league’s top player with 39 points and one assist shy of a triple-double.

Unlike Jokic, Victor Wembanyama came into the NBA with the anticipation of becoming the next great NBA big man, and he did not disappoint. The 19-year-old rookie scored 22 points and had 11 rebounds, matching Jokic. He also had four blocks and a career-high six thefts, making him the first rookie with a game like that.

After the game, two-time MVP Nikola Jokic shared his opinion on what Wembanyama contributes to the league.

“He is 19 years old,” Jokic explained. “He’s not afraid of getting tired.” He’s working hard and doesn’t take anything for granted. He makes mistakes, which is natural. I believe the media around him is detrimental to him, but he will adapt. He’s going to completely revolutionize the game. And he’s already on the right track.”

While basketball comes naturally to Jokic, Wembanyama made things more difficult for him. Jokic admits to regretting not adjusting for Wembanyama’s eight-foot wingspan. He lauded Wembanyama’s entire defense, saying he is one of the few players who can defend all five spots.

The Spurs still have a long way to go before becoming competitive, and even further before becoming contenders, but they have the player around whom they will develop, and it’s only a matter of time until they begin winning games.