Victor Wembanyama, Nikola Jokic
Victor Wembanyama, Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic left Serbia’s narrow win over France impressed by far more than the final score. He also walked away convinced that Victor Wembanyama could eventually occupy a place basketball has never seen.
Serbia defeated France 90-87 at Belgrade Arena. Jokic filled the box score with 20 points and eight assists, adding nine rebounds and three steals. The Serbian captain called the matchup a valuable test before his team continues its FIBA World Cup Qualifiers campaign, per Eurohoops.
“It was a good test for us against a quality opponent that was missing several EuroLeague and NBA players,” Jokic said. “They are an unconventional team, especially with Victor and Rudy. They are dangerous, but we managed to control the game for the most part before suffering a drop. In the end, it was a good game for us.”
"He has the opportunity to be the most unique basketball player we've ever seen…. To be the best ever"
Nothing but praise and respect by Nikola Jokic for Victor Wembanyama as a player and a person #FIBAWC #StepItUp pic.twitter.com/nLlJ7Td30x
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) August 20, 2026
Jokic Separates Competition From Rivalry
Wembanyama’s unusual skill set helped make France difficult to solve, but Jokic refused to turn the matchup into a personal contest. Instead, he focused on what could await the French star if his development continues.
“He is a special opponent because he is unique as a player and as a person. I don’t see him as a rival, and I don’t take this personally,” Jokic said.
“He has the opportunity to be the most unique basketball player we’ve ever seen,” Jokic added, before suggesting that Wembanyama could even become “the best ever.”
That distinction matters. Jokic did not simply compliment Wembanyama after a competitive game. He placed his potential at the highest possible level while acknowledging that no current comparison fully captures him.
Serbia secured the win after losing some control late. Wembanyama, however, earned the assessment everyone will remember.