In a hard-fought In-Season Tournament matchup against the Denver Nuggets on Friday night, the Dallas Mavericks may have suffered a 125-114 defeat, but the game held significant value for their growth.

It was an opportunity to gain experience against a championship-caliber team on the road, revealing insights into areas that need improvement to reach that level.

For Mavericks’ superstar Luka Doncic, playing against the Nuggets carries an additional layer of significance, given his close relationship with reigning Finals MVP, Nikola Jokic. Following the game, Doncic shared his thoughts on competing against Jokic and highlighted the qualities he most admires in his Serbian friend.

“I believe everyone recognized his greatness even before the MVPs and NBA Finals,” Doncic remarked. “He may not seek the spotlight in the media, but within the realm of players and coaches, he is celebrated as something truly extraordinary. He’s known to everyone as the remarkable talent he is. Right now, he’s arguably the finest basketball player in the world.”

The game not only showcased the fierce competition between these two friends but also deepened the mutual respect and admiration they hold for each other’s remarkable skills on the court.