Nikola Jokić born on February 19, 1995, in Sombor, Serbia, is a standout Serbian professional basketball player currently serving as the center for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA. Known as “the Joker,” he has earned a reputation as one of the greatest players and centers in the history of the sport, often celebrated as the greatest draft steal in NBA annals.
Jokić entered the NBA scene when the Denver Nuggets selected him in the second round of the 2014 NBA draft, securing the 41st overall pick. His impact was immediate, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2016. The 2018–19 season marked a turning point in Jokić’s career, securing his first All-Star and All-NBA First Team selections while guiding the Nuggets to the Western Conference Semifinals.
Continuing his ascent, Jokić consistently received All-Star and All-NBA accolades in the subsequent seasons. The 2022–23 NBA season, however, stood out as a pinnacle in his career, culminating in the coveted NBA championship for the Denver Nuggets, with Jokić earning the NBA Finals MVP distinction.
Standing tall at 6 feet 11 inches and weighing 284 pounds, Jokić is a force to be reckoned with on the court. His unique playing style, marked by extraordinary passing ability, distinguishes him as the greatest passing “big man” in NBA history. His court vision and playmaking skills have led to numerous comparisons to a water polo player, showcasing his ability to set up teammates with unconventional passes.
Not merely limited to his playmaking prowess, Jokić’s scoring versatility sets him apart. His signature move, the “Sombor Shuffle,” a high-arching fadeaway, became iconic. His offensive creativity, coupled with a high basketball IQ, has earned him the moniker of a “basketball genius.”
Jokić’s international impact is notable as well. Representing Serbia, he played a crucial role in securing a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Despite subsequent setbacks in international competitions, Jokić remains a key figure for the Serbian national team.
Off the court, Jokić’s early life in Serbia was marked by modesty, growing up in a cramped apartment with his two brothers, parents, and grandmother. His love for basketball developed early, playing with his older brothers, both of whom had their basketball careers. Additionally, Jokić harbored a childhood passion for horse racing, a hobby he continues to pursue.
In the 2015 NBA draft, Jokić’s journey to the Denver Nuggets began, where he evolved into a franchise player and, ultimately, led the team to its first-ever NBA championship in the 2022–23 season. His stellar performance earned him multiple MVP awards, solidifying his status as one of the league’s all-time greats.
As of the 2023–24 season, Jokić’s career averages stand at 20.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game. His impact on the game extends beyond statistics, as he holds various NBA records, including the fastest triple-double in history and the highest single-season player efficiency rating.
In his personal life, Jokić, initially sharing an apartment with his then-girlfriend and brothers, tied the knot with his longtime girlfriend Natalija Mačešić in October 2020. Their family expanded with the birth of their daughter in September 2021.
Nikola Jokić’s journey from a cramped apartment in Sombor to NBA stardom is a testament to his dedication, skill, and indomitable spirit. His impact on and off the court cements his legacy as an iconic figure in the world of basketball.
