The narrative that defense is “dead” in today’s NBA has been repeated so often that it’s almost accepted as fact. But according to two of the game’s brightest superstars—Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic—that idea couldn’t be further from the truth.
After the San Antonio Spurs dismantled the Milwaukee Bucks in a dominant 127–95 win, Wembanyama addressed one of the most common criticisms surrounding modern basketball: that nobody plays defense anymore. For the 22-year-old phenom, that perception quickly changed once he entered the league.
Wembanyama revealed that before arriving in the NBA, he constantly heard that defense had disappeared. But after experiencing the league firsthand, he came to a very different conclusion—defense isn’t gone, the offensive talent is just on another level. Players today are more skilled, more versatile, and far more difficult to guard due to spacing and shooting ability across all five positions.
That point is hard to argue when watching Wembanyama himself. Already regarded as arguably the most impactful defender in the league, his presence alone alters opposing offenses. Players hesitate, pass out of shots, or avoid driving entirely when he’s near the paint. His stat line—over 3 blocks per game—only tells part of the story. The real impact lies in what opponents don’t even attempt.
And Wembanyama isn’t alone in pushing back against the “no defense” narrative. Denver Nuggets superstar Jokic has also spoken out strongly against the criticism. Known for his high basketball IQ and measured takes, Jokic dismissed the claim outright, calling it “nonsense” and suggesting that those who believe it simply don’t understand the modern game.
What both players highlight is a key shift in how defense operates today. Rule changes—such as the ban on hand-checking and the defensive three-second violation—have made traditional physical defense more difficult. At the same time, the explosion of three-point shooting and floor spacing forces defenders to cover more ground than ever before.
In previous eras, defenders could pack the paint and rely on physicality. Today, they must navigate screens, close out on shooters, and guard players who can score from anywhere on the floor. The effort hasn’t disappeared—it’s evolved.
Critics, including former players, often compare eras without fully accounting for these changes. While defenses may look less dominant on the surface—especially with scoring numbers at historic highs—that doesn’t mean effort or skill has declined. In many ways, defending in today’s NBA is more demanding than ever.
Wembanyama’s rise only strengthens that argument. As the cornerstone of a surging Spurs team, he represents a new generation of defenders who combine size, mobility, and instincts in ways the league has rarely seen. His performances are not just shutting down opponents—they’re redefining what elite defense looks like in the modern game.
Ultimately, the message from both Wembanyama and Jokic is clear: defense isn’t gone—it’s just harder to recognize in an era dominated by unprecedented offensive talent.
