Nikola Jokić on Wembanyama: ‘He will be remembered forever.’ What could make the reigning MVP say this about a rising star?

Nikola Jokic praised Victor Wembanyama, calling him a special, one-of-a-kind player who is better this year than last and destined to be remembered forever.

Credit AP – Scanpix

Victor Wembanyama stole a late pass from Nikola Jokic with just four seconds remaining, sealing the San Antonio Spurs’ 113-110 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night.

Wembanyama delivered a dominant performance, finishing with 35 points and 18 rebounds to help the Spurs overcome a huge night from Jokic. The three-time MVP tallied 41 points, 18 rebounds, and nine assists, narrowly missing his 15th triple-double of the season.

After the game, Jokic expressed admiration for Wembanyama, who turns 21 on Saturday.

“I think he’s better this year than last year, and I think he’s going to get even better,” Jokic said of Wemby. “I think he’s a special player. I think he’s one of a kind and is going to be remembered forever.”

Friday marked Wembanyama’s 100th NBA game. With three career games of at least 35 points and 15 rebounds, Wembanyama now ranks second in NBA history for such games before turning 21, surpassing Shaquille O’Neal. Only John Drew has more, with four.

This season, the French phenom has elevated his play to new heights, averaging 25.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.9 blocks, and 3.3 three-pointers per game.