DENVER (AP) — Victor Wembanyama stole Nikola Jokic’s pass with 4 seconds left, and the San Antonio Spurs held on to beat the Denver Nuggets 113-110 on Friday night. Wembanyama finished with 35 points and 18 rebounds to help the Spurs overcome a big night from Jokic. The three-time MVP had 41 points, 18 rebounds, and nine assists, falling just short of his 15th triple-double.
San Antonio led by one with 17 seconds left, and Denver had a chance to win. Jokic tried to pass to a teammate, but Wembanyama intercepted it and fed Devin Vassell for the game-sealing dunk.
Michael Porter Jr. missed a 34-footer at the buzzer, which would have sent the game to overtime. Porter finished with 22 points for the Nuggets, whose three-game winning streak ended.
Wembanyama picked up his fifth foul with 8:46 left but shook it off to hit two deep 3-pointers, giving San Antonio a 97-92 lead with 7:52 remaining. Denver rallied to lead by five, but the Spurs regrouped and scored six straight points, taking a 109-108 lead as tensions rose.
The final seconds were electric as Wembanyama’s defensive instincts shone through. "DEVIN VASSELL'S STEAL SEALS IT. 🔥@spurs win a thriller in Denver!" tweeted the NBA.
Wembanyama, reflecting on the match, noted the challenge of facing such formidable opponents, stating, "Multiple-time MVP, soon to be MVP again. Can't ask for a more perfect way to get experience," acknowledging the caliber of Jokic.
Wembanyama's contribution this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. He currently leads all NBA players with his impressive stats, including block shots—a title no one can dispute, considering his height and agility. His efficiency on offense is also noteworthy; he has improved significantly, showing growth as both scorer and defender.
Coach Mitch Johnson credited his team's composure during this nail-biter: "I thought every time they had us on the ropes, I thought we kind of composed ourselves and fought ourselves back..." His emphasis on mental fortitude reveals how the Spurs are developing not just skill but character.
The game marked Wembanyama’s 100th career game, and the stats boggle the mind. It's hard to believe how much he has accomplished before turning 21, showcasing more points than legends and more rebounds than some of the greatest centers to ever play the game.
This low-key battle wasn't just about victory; it was about establishing the Spurs' rising star. Every possession counted, and every tactical move was magnified. Wembanyama's combination of size, skill, and determination has made him not just another player but potentially one of the league's future greats.
"I think he's going to be remembered forever," observed Jokic, highlighting Wembanyama's talent and potential. The importance of this game, especially with the stakes involved, cements this moment as memorable not only for Wembanyama but for the franchise as they continue to build for the future.
Looking forward, the rematch between the Spurs and Nuggets beckons as both teams aim to sharpen their strategies. The stakes are already high, and performances like the one witnessed on Friday will fuel rivalry and excitement.