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Arguably the best player in the world vs. Rookie of the Year- what a sight to behold! Two back-to-back games witnessed some of the finest basketball, as Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic came face-to-face. Well, on Friday, the Spurs overpowered the Nuggets in Denver’s home ground. But on Saturday in San Antonio’s ground, Joker and Co. played a game worth remembering. Most curious of all was the Serbian supergiant’s outstanding game. What drove him to become the dominant force at the Frost Bank Center?

Well, Nikola Jokic has always been the other name for domination. However, Saturday felt more like a comeback. Just a day ago, the 29-year-old became the primary topic of discussion on social media. Why? The 21-year-old outplayed the veteran 113-110 on Friday. However, Jokic registered 41 points, 18 rebounds, and 9 assists at Ball Arena. But, it was Wemby who stole the show and the game with a 35-point game and fifty-sixth career double-double.

Therefore, the reporters wanted to know after the all-important 111-122 win in a back-to-back against the Spurs, if Joker had seen the buzz around him on social media. “I’ll be honest. I think Nikola’s me,” Coach Michael Malone opined. “And I don’t think he pays any attention to social media. What’s being said, good, bad, indifferent.” Well, we all know that the Nuggets’ 3x MVP center isn’t active on any of the social media platforms. It’s probably his style of keeping the noises away from him. He’s all about the NBA (and his horses).

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“I know that Nikola has a ton of respect for Victor Wembanyama. We all do. He’s a great young talent, and he’s getting better right in front of our eyes.” Michael Malone told the media after winning against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. “And he’s going to be a force to be reckoned with for many many years. That has nothing to do with social media. That’s just greatness. Respect and greatness between two really good players.” 

At the same time, Jokic’s determination in Saturday’s game, his ‘I’m going to take this game over and get out of my way’ motive, produced the results Denver Nuggets desperately wanted. Besides, Jokic has no hard feelings about the 21-year-old alien Victor Wembanyama. Instead, the Serbian wingman shares a sense of camaraderie with the young star.

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Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets have great respect for Wemby

Well, Coach Mike isn’t the only one acknowledging the French Force. Even Nikola Jokic has admitted that Wemby is a ‘one-of-a-kind’ player in the current NBA scenes. After Friday’s loss at the Ball Arena, Joker said: “I think he’s better this year than last year, and I think he’s going to get even better. Experience…his body is changing…learning different plays, he has very good veterans in his team right now to help him grow so I think he’s a special player. I think he’s one of a kind and is going to be remembered forever.”

What’s your perspective on:

Can Wembanyama dethrone Jokic as the NBA's top player, or is the Joker still king?

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The Denver Nuggets secured a thrilling 122-111 victory against Victor Wembanyama and his team, showcasing their resilience in a game that extended into overtime. Nikola Jokic dominated with 46 points, while Wembanyama added 20. Ultimately, Mike Malone’s squad had the last laugh, delivering an entertaining showdown for the crowd.

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Without a doubt, Victor Wembanyama continues to establish himself as a rising force in the NBA. However, it is crucial to remember that Nikola Jokic remains a dominant figure on the court. Averaging an incredible 31.5 points per game with a remarkable 55.4% field goal percentage, the reigning MVP is playing at the peak of his game. Moreover, social media criticism has done little to faze the horse-loving Serbian superstar, who consistently performs with poise and confidence.

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Can Wembanyama dethrone Jokic as the NBA's top player, or is the Joker still king?