Photo: Peter Baba

Victor Wembanyama enjoyed a successful return to France as captain of the national team, helping Les Bleus defeat Serbia in an exhibition game at CO’Met Arena in Orleans.

“It’s strange to suit up in France again, but honestly, there’s nothing easier than coming back and playing big games like this,” Wembanyama said after representing France at home with the senior team for the first time in two years.

Playing at center under Frederic Fauthoux and sharing the frontcourt with Rudy Gobert, the San Antonio Spurs star felt comfortable with his role.

“From the opening tip, I felt more comfortable operating out of the paint,” he said.

France was tested by Nikola Jokic, who finished with 34 points and 13 rebounds while leading Serbia’s second-half comeback. Wembanyama said the challenge was valuable for a French roster still developing its chemistry.

“We are a newly assembled roster and don’t have our chemistry down quite yet, so it was crucial to establish our foundational identity,” he said.

Wembanyama also emphasized the importance of approaching the friendly seriously.

“My message in the locker room before tip-off was that we must protect home court and not take any opponent lightly,” he said. “It is an exhibition match, but we need to develop championship habits. We learned a few key lessons today.”

Facing Jokic for the second time in four days also provided another learning opportunity.

“Of course, you always learn when you play against Jokic,” Wembanyama said. “From those interior duels, you pick up counters, smarter footwork.”

Jaylen Hoard ultimately secured France’s victory with a buzzer-beating layup.

“I don’t know if I’ve ever witnessed a game-winner quite like that live,” Wembanyama said. “I had a front-row view of the game-winning bucket. An unbelievable feeling.”

Victor Wembanyama on what he learns from his matchups with Nikola Jokichttps://t.co/lnCgKsWfpy