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Jokic takes the MVP battle with Wembanyama: “He will change the NBA”
Sandy Verma | April 6, 2026 10:24 AM CST

A game worth the price of admission – and then some. At Ball Arena, a matchup unfolded that already feels like the future of the NBA: Nikola Jokic vs Victor Wembanyama experience vs uniqueness, control vs instinct.

In the end, the Serbian comes out on top. But the final score – 136-134 after overtime – only tells part of the story.

Jokic delivers: the “Sombor Shuffle” seals it

With under a minute left in overtime and the Denver Nuggets up by two, the ball finds Jokic. Guarded by Wembanyama, ready on defense, Jokic attacks the paint, fakes the pass, then rises for his signature move: the “Sombor Shuffle”.

A high-arcing shot from well beyond three meters that drops over the Frenchman’s endless wingspan – the dagger that ends the duel.

Jokic’s performance was nothing short of complete: 40 points, 13 assists, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks and 0 turnovers. A stat line that reflects total control and dominance.

Head coach David Adelman summed it up perfectly:

Wembanyama answers back

On the other side, The animal more than held his own.

He finished with: 34 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assist and 5 blocks. He also became the first Spurs player to record three straight games with at least 30 points and 15 rebounds, joining a historical tier that brings to mind Shaquille O’Neal during his 1999-2000 MVP season.

His postgame comments captured the spirit of the night:

Two generational talents shaping the NBA

The mutual respect between the two stars is evident. Jokic, speaking about Wembanyamawas clear:

And again, Adelman:

One stat makes this rivalry even more intriguing: in their three matchups this season, both teams have scored 130+ points every time – something that hadn’t happened since 1983-84.

The next chapter is already set: April 12, Spurs vs Nuggets again.

And after a game like this, expectations are simple: more pure basketball spectacle.


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