In a candid chat with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Nikola Jokic, who just celebrated his 31st birthday, opened up about his career, handling injuries, and the narratives that surround him. And let’s be clear, Jokic cares-a lot.
If you’ve been watching the three-time MVP, you’d know that already. But for those still doubting, the Nuggets’ star set the record straight.
In his conversation with Andrews, Jokic tackled the persistent “Jokic doesn’t care” narrative head-on. “I care a lot,” he emphasized.
“If you don’t care for winning, you’re not supposed to be in this sport.” It’s a powerful statement from a player whose work ethic speaks volumes, even if his demeanor sometimes gets misinterpreted.
The timing of this interview is intriguing. Coming off an All-Star Weekend where Kevin Durant questioned the intensity of Jokic and Luka Doncic, Jokic is in a pivotal phase of his career. The Nuggets are eyeing a second title, and the future remains uncertain.
Jokic has often brushed off criticism, but this time, he chose to address it directly. “Just my personality may be a little bit different, or I accept victory and success in different ways,” he explained.
“I think I care about basketball, and I love to play basketball. I enjoy it.
I enjoy competing.”
Despite missing 16 games due to a significant injury, Jokic is putting up stellar numbers: 28.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game. He’s leading the league in assists and rebounds, ranking seventh in scoring, while shooting 59% from the field and 42% from beyond the arc. His performance is a testament to his dedication, not just another season of averaging a triple-double.
Andrews also touched on Jokic’s passion for horse racing, asking him to choose between a horse racing championship and an NBA title. Jokic’s response?
“NBA championship, right now.” That says it all.
Reflecting on his injury, Jokic shared, “It was really interesting because I’ve never been injured before. I’m so used to playing, so used to being on the floor that I felt like I’m missing out.” During his absence, he was often seen actively engaged, guiding his teammates from the sidelines.
As for how long he plans to play, Jokic stated, “I think I’m going to play basketball until I can play on a high level. Because I enjoy it and I love to play. I’m going to play until I can perform on a high level and still enjoy it and still be healthy.”
With comparisons to stars like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant, who continue to excel in their late 30s and early 40s, Jokic, at 31, might have many more years at the top. The Nuggets, sitting at 35-20 and third in the West, are poised for a strong second half of the season. They’re among the favorites to win it all, with the big question being if they can overcome the reigning champions, OKC.
What’s not in doubt is Jokic’s commitment to the game and his team. The man is here to win, and he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.