Michael Porter Jr. revealed a surprising anecdote about his teammate Nikola Jokic on his podcast, shedding light on the laid-back attitude Jokic had early in his career with the Denver Nuggets. According to Porter, in the initial stages, Jokic wasn’t overly passionate about the game, although he was undeniably talented.
“Early on in my career with the Nuggets, he really wasn’t that into it, like he was good, he didn’t care that much. But he has grown every single year, even after his MVP year, how you get better after an MVP year, he did it.”
“Then he goes back-to-back MVP. now how is he better this year, after we just won a championship. You go back to Serbia, I was just talking to him, ‘ Brother, I was drinking 6 beers a day. He probably didn’t touch a basketball.” (10:50)
Michael Porter Jr’s podcast Curious Mike just dropped an episode with Aaron Gordon. Here’s two and a half minutes of them talking about how great Nikola Jokić is. pic.twitter.com/aiJBiaWpig
— Katy Winge (@katywinge) November 28, 2023
In a surprising twist, Jokic confessed to a lifestyle that contrasted with the typical image of an NBA champion’s rigorous training regimen. According to Porter, Jokic claimed to have been drinking six beers a day during his time in Serbia and, quite notably, might not have touched a basketball during that period.
However, Porter emphasized the remarkable growth in Jokic’s commitment to basketball over the years. Even after winning the MVP title, Jokic continued to elevate his game, securing back-to-back MVP awards. The most unexpected revelation came when Porter shared a recent conversation with Jokic, recounting how, after winning the 2023 NBA championship, Nikola Jokic returned to Serbia.
This revelation adds a humorous and unconventional dimension to Jokic’s off-season activities, showcasing a different side to the NBA champion’s approach to celebration and relaxation.
Nikola Jokic Has Risen From An All-Star To The Best Player In The World In Just 5 Years
Nikola Jokic’s ascent in the NBA over the past five years has been nothing short of spectacular, transforming from a first-time All-Star in 2019 to arguably the best player in the world. The turning point came during the NBA bubble in 2020 when Jokic showcased his exceptional skills, leading the Denver Nuggets to overcome 3-1 deficits in the first and second rounds.
In the face of adversity, particularly in the second round against the formidable Los Angeles Clippers, Jokic’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Although the Nuggets eventually succumbed to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals, Jokic’s star status was undeniable, signaling a promising future.
The 2020-21 season posed a new challenge when Jokic’s co-star, Jamal Murray, suffered an ACL injury. Undeterred, Jokic carried the Nuggets, guiding them to the third seed in the West and a second-round playoff appearance. He also won his first-ever NBA MVP award. Jokic’s brilliance continued to shine in the 2021-22 season, where he secured his second MVP award. Despite the individual accolade, the Nuggets faced an early playoff exit.
However, the 2022-23 season marked a triumphant return for the Nuggets. With Murray back in action, Jokic reached new heights. The team clinched the first seed in the West, dominating their way to the franchise’s first-ever NBA title. Jokic’s exceptional performance earned him the NBA Finals MVP, solidifying his status as the best player in the world.
Jokic’s rapid rise from an emerging talent to a dominant force on the court has not only transformed the Nuggets but has also reshaped the landscape of elite NBA players. As he continues to showcase unparalleled skills and lead his team to success, Jokic’s legacy in the league is bound to grow even further.
WATCH: Aaron Gordon’s episode on Michael Porter Jr.’s podcast
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