The NBA witnessed a clash of titans as Victor Wembanyama’s San Antonio Spurs faced off against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. In a game that went down to the wire, it was the sensational rookie who emerged victorious, leading his team to a thrilling 113-110 win.
Wembanyama’s Stellar Performance
Victor Wembanyama, the NBA’s most talked-about rookie, proved his worth once again with an impressive stat line of 35 points and 18 rebounds. The 20-year-old phenom showcased his versatility, draining deep threes and using his 7-foot-4 frame to dominate the paint.
“I think he’s better this year than last year, and I think he’s going to get even better,” Jokic said of Wembanyama. “I think he’s a special player. I think he’s one of a kind and is going to be remembered forever.”
– Nikola Jokic on Victor Wembanyama
Wembanyama’s performance was even more remarkable considering he picked up his fifth foul with 8:46 left in the game. Undeterred, the young star hit two clutch threes to give the Spurs a 97-92 lead.
Jokic’s Near Triple-Double
On the other side, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic put on a show of his own. The Serbian superstar finished with 41 points, 18 rebounds, and 9 assists, falling just shy of his 15th triple-double of the season.
“I love him being that aggressive,” Denver coach Michael Malone said. “He’s one of the best 3-point shooters in the NBA this year, so I loved how aggressive he was.”
– Michael Malone on Nikola Jokic
Jokic’s 36 shot attempts marked the second-highest total of his career, underscoring his determination to carry his team to victory.
The Decisive Moment
With the Nuggets down by one and 17 seconds left on the clock, Jokic attempted a pass to a teammate. However, Wembanyama’s 7-foot-9 wingspan came into play as he intercepted the ball and fed Devin Vassell for a game-sealing dunk.
WEMBANYAMA WITH THE CLUTCH STEAL TO SEAL THE WIN FOR THE SPURS!
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 4, 2025
Michael Porter Jr.’s desperate 34-footer at the buzzer missed its mark, and the Spurs celebrated a hard-fought victory over one of the Western Conference’s top teams.
A Duel for the Ages
The matchup between Wembanyama and Jokic will be remembered as one of the most exciting duels of the season. It was only the sixth game since the NBA/ABA merger in 1976 to feature two players with at least 35 points and 15 rebounds each.
| Player | Points | Rebounds |
| Victor Wembanyama | 35 | 18 |
| Nikola Jokic | 41 | 18 |
Wembanyama, who turns 21 on Saturday, now has three career 35-point, 15-rebound games, breaking a tie with Shaquille O’Neal for the second-most such games in NBA history before a player’s 21st birthday.
Looking Ahead
The Spurs and Nuggets will face off again on Saturday night in San Antonio, giving fans another opportunity to witness the budding rivalry between Wembanyama and Jokic.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Victor Wembanyama as he continues to make his mark on the NBA. With performances like this, it’s clear that the young Frenchman is destined for greatness.
