In a recent itnerview, Nikola Jokic described All-Star Weekend as a time to connect with peers. “I think just that moment… to share thoughts, share locker room, share court with them,” he said.
Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Jamal Murray, Jokic recalled their first meeting. “I met him at Nike Hoop Summit… I didn’t think much, just a really good talented young player,” he said.
Jokic noted how fatherhood has shaped Murray. “I think fatherhood changed him a little bit… he’s playing on that level the last two, three years,” he explained.
He described their shared growth on the court: “Experience playing with each other, feeling each other on the court… it’s still a process and still a learning,” Jokic said.
The Nuggets center discussed Murray’s impact during his own injury periods. “He played much better than when I was injured… I could learn a lot from him playing how he played,” he said.
Jokic praised Murray’s competitiveness. “He wants to be the best… he wants more, he wants to win,” he said, highlighting the guard’s drive.
On his own development, Jokic emphasized availability. “Being available… I take care of my body and even if I have little injuries I play through it,” he said.
Mentally, he said he’s improved in leadership. “Trying to be a better teammate, try not to talk to referees… not losing your energy on things you cannot control,” he explained.
Jokic shared his process for mastering his touch around the rim. “Even when I was younger I couldn’t really jump… I started developing push shots, floaters, cookies,” he said.
The Nuggets star discussed reading the game. “Experience, reading a defense, knowing your players… it’s always on,” he said, emphasizing basketball as a lifelong learning process.
Looking ahead, Jokic said a championship remains the ultimate goal. “Winning a championship… that’s the only one you want, that’s competitive, you want to be the best,” he said.
He expressed confidence in Denver’s roster and coaching staff. “We have versatility… a new coaching staff… we can definitely surprise some teams,” Jokic said.
On his legacy, Jokic said he wants to be remembered as a teammate. “A good teammate, a good guy… everybody wants to play with him. That’s what I want,” he said.
