Why is Nikola Jokic Not Playing for Serbia? Who is Nikola Jokic?
by S Samayanka | Updated Sep 04, 2023
Why is Nikola Jokic Not Playing for Serbia?
Nikola Jokic is not playing for Serbia in the 2023 FIBA World Cup due to his decision to prioritize rest and recovery during the summer. After winning his first NBA Championship and being named the NBA Finals MVP, Jokic made the conscious choice to skip international competition to prepare for the upcoming NBA season. This decision is grounded in several key factors.
Firstly, Jokic's style of play relies heavily on skill rather than raw athleticism, reducing the likelihood of a rapid decline in his performance as he ages. Additionally, his presence is vital for the Denver Nuggets, as they aim to contend for another NBA championship in the coming seasons.
The Denver Nuggets are seen as a strong team with the potential to establish a dynasty, making it essential for Jokic to maintain peak physical condition. This choice reflects his commitment to his NBA team's success and the desire to protect his body for the demanding NBA season ahead.
While Serbia will miss its star player in the FIBA World Cup, Jokic's decision underscores the growing importance of NBA commitments for elite players and their teams, especially when they are poised for long-term success.
Who is Nikola Jokic?
Nikola Jokić, often nicknamed "the Joker," is a Serbian basketball sensation renowned for his transformative impact on the NBA. Born in Sombor, Serbia, on February 19 in the year 1995, Jokić's early introduction to basketball led to an extraordinary career.
Notably, he was drafted as the 41st pick by the Denver Nuggets in the 2014 NBA Draft, an absolute steal. His versatility, exceptional passing skills, and basketball IQ defied traditional center stereotypes, making him a fan favorite and reshaping the modern NBA center position.
Nikola Jokić's influence reaches beyond individual awards; he has redefined the expectations for big men in the NBA, emphasizing versatility and basketball IQ. His extraordinary talent, relentless work ethic, and transformative impact make him one of the greatest players of his generation, a dominant force in the NBA, and a game-changer in the world of basketball.
Born
February 19, 1995
Age
28 Years
Birthplace
Sombor, Serbia, FR Yugoslavia
Nationality
Serbian
Position
Center
League
NBA
Name
Nikola Jokić
Early Life of Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokić hails from Sombor, a city in the northern region of Serbia. His upbringing was marked by modesty, as he, along with his two older brothers, parents, and grandmother, lived in a cramped two-bedroom apartment. Jokić's father worked as an agricultural engineer to provide for the family.
Nikola's deep-rooted affection for basketball blossomed during his early years when he engaged in the sport with his brothers, Strahinja and Nemanja, who were significantly older than him by a decade. Both of his brothers pursued basketball in Serbia, with Nemanja even venturing into college basketball in the United States, playing for Detroit Mercy and C.W. Post, as well as for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Steamers in the Premier Basketball League.
Notably, the Jokić brothers share a friendship with former NBA player Darko Miličić. Additionally, apart from basketball, Nikola had a childhood fascination with horse racing, even competing as an amateur a passion that continues to hold a special place in his heart to this day.
Nikola Jokic Stats
2022-23
Nuggets
69
33.7
24.5
63.2
38.3
11.8
9.8
1.3
2021-22
Nuggets
74
33.5
27.1
58.3
33.7
13.8
7.9
1.5
2020-21
Nuggets
72
34.6
26.4
56.6
38.8
10.8
8.3
1.3
2019-20
Nuggets
73
32.0
19.9
52.8
31.4
9.7
7.0
1.2
2018-19
Nuggets
80
31.3
20.1
51.1
30.7
10.8
7.2
1.4
2017-18
Nuggets
75
32.5
18.5
49.9
39.6
10.7
6.1
1.2
2016-17
Nuggets
73
27.9
16.7
57.8
32.4
9.8
4.9
0.8
2015-16
Nuggets
80
21.7
9.9
51.2
33.3
7.0
2.4
1.0
Career
Career
596
30.8
20.2
55.3
34.8
10.5
6.6
1.2
Year
Team
GP
Minutes per game
Points per game
Field Goal %
3-
Point %
Rebounds per game
Assists per game
Steals per game
Nikola Jokic Age
Nikola Jokić, born on February 19, 1995, is currently 28 years old, and his age is a testament to his remarkable journey in the world of professional basketball. Over the years, he has evolved from a young and promising talent into one of the most dominant and influential players in the NBA.
At 28, Jokić has already achieved numerous accolades, including back-to-back NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, a feat that cements his status as one of the league's premier players. His age also signifies a player in his prime, with the potential for many more years of extraordinary performance ahead.
Nikola Jokic Height
Nikola Jokić stands tall at an imposing 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 meters), a physical attribute that significantly contributes to his basketball prowess. His towering height is a defining feature for a professional basketball player, especially as a center. At this impressive stature, Jokić possesses a commanding presence on the court, allowing him to excel in various facets of the game.
His height provides a natural advantage in rebounding, allowing him to reach over opponents and secure critical boards for his team. It also grants him an extended wingspan, making it challenging for opponents to block his shots or pass over his defense. However, what truly sets Jokić apart is his ability to combine his exceptional height with the agility and finesse of a guard, an unusual combination for someone of his size.
Nikola Jokic Brothers
Strahinja Jokic:
Strahinja Jokic, the eldest of the Jokic brothers, was born in 1982 and stands at an imposing 6 feet 8 inches. He pursued a professional basketball career in Europe and played a crucial role in sparking Nikola's passion for the game. Strahinja's support for his younger brother extended to attending all of Nikola's games and passionately cheering him on from the sidelines. However, he also garnered media attention for his fiery displays of emotion, including punching chairs and leaving arenas to calm himself. Strahinja's life took a darker turn in 2019 when he faced legal troubles, being arrested and charged with serious offenses.
Nemanja Jokic:
Nemanja Jokic, the middle brother born in 1984, may be shorter than Strahinja at 6 feet 6 inches, but he too embraced basketball, notably playing Division I basketball at the University of Detroit Mercy. Beyond basketball, Nemanja ventured into the world of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), where he boasts an impressive undefeated record of 3-0, with all victories coming by knockout. Nemanja's multifaceted athletic abilities make him a unique member of the Jokic family. Alongside Strahinja, he shares a deep loyalty to Nikola, often intervening in confrontations and defending him against critics and opponents.
Net Worth of Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokić, the Serbian basketball maestro, boasts an impressive net worth of $30 million. This substantial wealth is a testament to his exceptional talent and success in the National Basketball Association (NBA). As a cornerstone player for the Denver Nuggets, Jokić has earned lucrative contracts and endorsements, further augmenting his financial stature.
Net Worth
$30 million approximately
Salary
$46.9 million (2023-24 season)
Residence
Denver, Colorado
Source of Wealth
Professional Basketball, Endorsements, and Investments
Name
Nikola Jokić
Will Jokic Play for Serbia in World Cup?
No, Nikola Jokic will not be playing for the Serbian national team in the upcoming FIBA World Cup. The decision has been officially announced by coach Svetislav Pesic. Jokic's absence from the national team roster stems from the need for rest and recovery following Denver Nuggets' extended postseason run. The Serbian superstar has had a grueling season, competing in a total of 89 games, including the playoffs, ultimately helping the Nuggets secure their first-ever NBA championship.
Furthermore, Jokic's extensive workload over the past few seasons, amounting to 288 regular-season games since the 2019-20 season, places him ninth in the league in terms of games played during that period. Given his tremendous contribution to the Nuggets' championship and the physical toll it has taken, it's understandable that he is prioritizing rest and recovery, which will also benefit his long-term health and future performance in the NBA. As a result, fans should not expect to see Jokic representing Serbia in the World Cup
Why is Nikola Jokic Not Playing for Serbia? - FAQs
Nikola Jokic is prioritizing rest and recovery after winning the NBA Championship and being named Finals MVP.
Jokic's decision is influenced by his style of play, the importance of his presence for the Denver Nuggets, and the team's aspirations for future NBA success.
Nikola Jokic is currently 28 years old, which is considered his prime years in the NBA.
Jokic has transformed the traditional expectations for NBA centers by emphasizing versatility, exceptional passing skills, and basketball IQ.
Nikola Jokic's net worth is approximately $30 million, primarily earned through his professional basketball career, endorsements, and investments.