Former NBA forward and current Olimpia Milano star Nikola Mirotic recently opened up about Jimmy Butler’s intense work ethic during an appearance on the Best In Class podcast by SKWEEK. Mirotic, who played alongside Butler on the Chicago Bulls, described Butler’s unique routines and relentless commitment to his craft.
“Jimmy Butler is probably the hardest-working player I’ve ever seen,” Mirotic said, via HoopsHype. “He had these crazy routines. He’d go to the practice facility at 3:00 a.m. with his personal coach, lift weights at 3:00 a.m., and then do basketball drills at 5:00 a.m.”
Mirotic added that Butler’s unconventional approach often puzzled his teammates, especially when Butler would skip team practices after completing early-morning workouts. “There were days when Jimmy would show up at practice, take off his shoes, and just sit on the side watching us practice,” he said. “I’d wonder, ‘Why isn’t Jimmy practicing?’ Then someone would tell me, ‘Jimmy already got his workout in with his coach earlier.’”
The former Bull emphasized that Butler’s routines weren’t just about physical preparation but also mental discipline. “It was his own routine, and it worked for him. He had his own rhythm, and after a while, I understood it,” Mirotic shared. “Jimmy was great. Every night, whether he practiced with us or not, he gave his all in games. He competed every single night.”
Butler’s reputation for a tireless work ethic is well-known throughout the league, and Mirotic’s comments add further insight into the dedication that has made Butler a six-time All-Star and one of the most respected players in the NBA.
Currently, Butler, 35, finds himself in a standoff with the Miami Heat following his trade request and subsequent suspension by the team.
Butler’s commitment has long been a cornerstone of his success, from his emergence as a late first-round pick in 2011 to becoming a leading figure for every team he’s played for, including the Bulls, Timberwolves, 76ers, and Heat.
