Spell Shield talent

[Nikkaszal]

Does this trigger AFTER the initial ability hit or does it also reduce damage from the ability that activates it?

Eg Nova Q's you from stealth (either pre-16 or if she can't get in for a W if she has Crippling Shot). Do you get chunked hard and THEN Spell Shield activates, or would it reduce the Q by 50%?

[Nerraw]

I've always assumed it takes the first hit. Though now I'm starting to doubt myself.

[Nikkaszal]

Either way, it's probably a terrific idea to auto-pick it in solo queue vs a Nova if offered. If it doesn't block the first hit that's OK, her first hit will be W anyway which will activate it (and W does shit-all damage). And if she Q's first that's also OK, because they Q as well as the followup auto will be 25% weaker from not being debuffed by W.

I might even take Block AND Spellshield next time as Arthas just for funsies