At just 30 years old, Nikola Jokic has already amassed a remarkable list of achievements, including an NBA championship, Finals MVP, three MVP awards, and multiple All-Star selections. Despite his laid-back demeanor and penchant for horse racing, many fans speculate that he might be contemplating retirement. However, those notions appear to be far from the truth.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Jokic clarified his intentions, stating, “I’m going to play basketball until I can play on a high level… because I enjoy it and I love to play.” His commitment to the sport is evident, and as long as he can contribute to the Denver Nuggets’ success, he has no plans of hanging up his sneakers just yet.
This season, Jokic is showcasing his skills with impressive averages of 28.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game while shooting an impressive 59.0 percent. Even though he has faced injury setbacks—having missed 16 consecutive games due to the 65-game eligibility rule for MVP consideration—his unique playing style allows him to perform efficiently without wearing himself out. Standing at 6’11”, Jokic combines high basketball IQ with skillful play, suggesting that he may continue to excel into his late 30s.
As he navigated unfamiliar territory due to his recent injury, Jokic reflected on how much he cherishes the game. “I’ve never been injured before and it was a completely kind of new moment in my career,” he shared. This experience has only reinforced his love for basketball and his desire to keep playing.
Despite speculation and external opinions, it’s clear that Jokic remains focused on contributing to his team’s success and achieving more championship titles. His passion for the game, coupled with his talent, suggests that fans can anticipate witnessing significant moments from him in the future.
While the idea of retirement may float in the background, it’s evident that Jokic is determined to continue his journey in the NBA, demonstrating that there is still much more to come from the Joker. For him, the thrill of the game takes precedence over any other accolades or pursuits, with the racing titles waiting for his attention until his basketball career concludes.