Nikola Jokic confirms intention to finish career with Denver Nuggets
Three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic has dismissed speculation about his basketball future by declaring his intention to spend the rest of his career with the Denver Nuggets.
The 6ft 11in center recently appeared on the Serbian podcast X&O’s CHAT to discuss his long-term plans on the court.
Despite his relaxed demeanour occasionally prompting rumours of an early exit from the sport, the eight-time All-Star insists he is far from finished.
“I want to play as long as I can,” stated the 2023 NBA champion.
“As long as I’m creating an advantage and I can play at the highest level.”
Finding peace in Colorado
Drafted 41st overall in 2014, the Sombor native has transformed into the focal point of the Denver offence and revolutionized the modern big man role.
He unequivocally rejected the idea of ever representing another franchise in the world’s premier basketball competition.
“I wouldn’t like to imagine that,” he explained when questioned about donning a different jersey.
“I really found peace here. My two kids were born here. Everyone’s here. Peace, home, I found my life here.”
The elite playmaker is currently averaging a triple-double, posting 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds and 10.3 assists per game this season.
Defending the NBA standard
Before making the leap to North America, the Serbian prodigy spent three seasons with Mega Vizura and captured the Adriatic League MVP award.
However, he possesses no desire to return to European competition for a career swansong.
“No. Nothing against EuroLeague or Europe, but I would not do it,” he confirmed.
The franchise cornerstone also took the opportunity to fiercely defend the defensive standards of the American league against its international critics.
“NBA is by far the best league in the world, with the best players,” he added.
He highlighted the scoring exploits of Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic in international tournaments to prove that scoring in America is no easier than overseas.