France pulled out a 91–90 victory over Serbia in Orleans, with Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic producing standout performances within the exhibition rematch.
The groups met once more simply three days after Serbia gained their earlier matchup in Belgrade. France began strongly, with Wembanyama energizing the house crowd by dunks and consecutive blocks on Jokic.
Taking part in alongside Rudy Gobert, Wembanyama helped France management the inside and set up an early double-digit benefit. Sylvain Francisco led Les Bleus with 20 factors, whereas Wembanyama completed with 19.
France prolonged its benefit within the second quarter and entered halftime with a 19-point lead after limiting Serbia offensively. Jokic responded after the break and led Serbia’s comeback.
The Denver Nuggets star completed with 34 factors, 13 rebounds and 5 assists as Serbia erased the deficit and moved forward within the fourth quarter. Nikola Jovic added 13 factors.
The sport remained shut within the remaining seconds. Wembanyama transformed essential free throws earlier than Marko Guduric scored with 4.7 seconds remaining to provide Serbia a one-point benefit.
France had one remaining possession, and Jaylen Hoard transformed a buzzer-beating layup to provide Les Bleus the 91–90 win.
Each nationwide groups will now flip their consideration towards the 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers earlier than their NBA gamers return to their golf equipment.
France will get some payback over Serbia in a prep recreation
Nikola Jokic’s 34 factors weren’t sufficient for his staff#FIBAWC #StepItUphttps://t.co/TSgV7k8YsY
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) August 23, 2026
