Jokic triumphed in his matchup against Wembanyama, while France struggled to find additional offensive solutions. Serbia sends a clear message: include them in your summer considerations!

Nikola Jokic made a highly anticipated return to the court, delighting a sizable crowd with his first appearance in two months. His performance served as a powerful reminder of why he is widely regarded as one of the premier players of the modern era. Jokic’s presence was instrumental as Serbia presented the toughest defensive test of the summer for Victor Wembanyama and the French team.

Serbia demonstrated many of the strengths that propelled them to a silver medal at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, suggesting that potential absences like those of Nikola Jović and Dejan Davidovac may not significantly hinder their capabilities moving forward.

Serbia began the game by deploying Jokic and Nikola Milutinov in the frontcourt to neutralize France’s formidable duo of Wembanyama and Gobert. Surprisingly, it was Ognjen Dobric who emerged as the early star, knocking down a pair of three-pointers in the opening quarter.

The French frontcourt performed effectively, with Wembanyama sinking a step-back three-pointer over Jokic, and Rudy standing out in the first quarter with a turnaround jumper. France’s defense was particularly strong towards the end of the quarter, successfully switching positions and carrying a five-point lead into the second quarter.

But Jokic changed the momentum in the second quarter, showing extreme determination and desire. He schooled his French opponents, getting the ball and successfully posting up Wembanyama.

The turnaround began on defense for Serbia, as they allowed France to score only 9 points in the second half.

Les Bleus got back to work in the third quarter, finding some tough baskets, and they cut the gap to 8 points entering the final quarter.

Jokic fouled out with 4 minutes to go in regulation, which opened up some space for France. They cut the deficit to as little as 4 points. However, Serbia’s ball movement in clutch moments and big threes by Petrusev and Bogdanovic ultimately won the game for them.