Nikola Jokic, also known as “The Joker,” has taken the NBA by storm with his unique style of play and impressive skills on the court. From being a relatively unknown player to becoming one of the league’s top players, Jokic’s journey to success has captured the attention of basketball fans worldwide.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the rise of Nikola Jokic and how he went from being an underdog to an NBA superstar.
Early Years and Career Beginnings
Born in Sombor, Serbia in 1995, Jokic grew up playing basketball with his older brothers. Despite showing potential, he was not heavily recruited by European teams and was not even considered for the NBA draft.
However, in 2014, The Joker caught the attention of the Denver Nuggets and was selected as the 41st overall pick in the draft.
Rookie Season and Breakout Performance
In his rookie season, Jokic quickly proved his worth as a valuable player for the Nuggets. He averaged 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. But it was in his second season that Jokic truly made a name for himself.
Embed from Getty ImagesHe became the first player in NBA history to record a triple-double with less than 20 points, scoring 17 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks. This performance solidified his place as a rising star in the league.
All-Star and MVP Contender
Jokic’s impressive play continued to improve, and he was selected as an NBA All-Star for the first time in 2019. He also led the Nuggets to the playoffs, where they made it to the Western Conference Semifinals.
Embed from Getty ImagesIn the 2020-2021 season, Jokic’s performance reached new heights as he averaged 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists per game, earning him the NBA Most Valuable Player award. He also became the first player in NBA history to record a triple-double in three consecutive playoff games.
The Rise of Jokic’s Rookie Card
As Jokic’s popularity and success on the court grew, so did the demand for his rookie card. His 2015-2016 Panini Prizm rookie card, which originally sold for around $10, is now worth thousands of dollars. This surge in value is a testament to Jokic’s rise to stardom and the recognition of his talent by basketball fans and collectors.
The Future of Nikola Jokic
At 28 years old, Jokic has already achieved more than most players do in their entire careers. With his unique skill set and impressive statistics, he is poised to continue dominating the NBA for years to come.
As he continues to lead the Nuggets and make his mark on the league, the rise of Nikola Jokic is far from over.
In conclusion, Nikola Jokic’s journey from being an underdog to an NBA superstar is a testament to his hard work, determination, and undeniable talent. As he continues to make history and inspire fans around the world, it’s clear that “The Joker” is here to stay.
Image Credit: Flickr