Nikola Jokic, star of the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets, has named Victor Wembanyama an era-defining player, claiming that the San Antonio Spurs centre will revolutionise basketball.

The 19-year-old Wembanyama is regarded as the hottest talent to enter the NBA since LeBron James in 2003, with the ability to reach the heights of James and Chicago Bulls star Michael Jordan. Following the Nuggets’ 131-120 victory over the Spurs, Jokic joined the growing list of fans of the young player, who scored 22 points, 11 rebounds, and two assists in the loss.

 

“He is going to change the game 100 percent,” said Jokic, the 2023 NBA Finals MVP. “He’s already on the path, so for all the guys, just enjoy and watch the show and let the guy change the game.

 

“I think he’s 19 years old. He’s not getting scared or getting tired. He’s playing hard, and he wants to be good. As I said, he’s playing hard and doesn’t take it for granted. He’s making mistakes, which is normal. I think the media around him doesn’t help, but he needs to get used to it because he is only 19.”

Wembanyama is presently averaging 19 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game in his debut season after being selected with the first overall choice in the 2023 NBA Draft.

Jokic, on the other hand, reminded the prospect of who is in charge right now, finishing with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in the victory.

Jokic is averaging 28.2 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game as he looks to defend his NBA championship and Finals MVP status.