Why is Nikola Jokic Called the Joker? Know the Story Behind His Nickname

Who is this remarkable basketball player known as Nikola Joki? Hailing from Serbia, Joki has made a significant impact in the world of professional basketball as the center for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA. With an impressive record of accomplishments, including five NBA All-Star selections and multiple appearances on the All-NBA Team, Joki has

Why is Nikola Jokic Called the Joker? Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets center, is widely recognized as The Joker, check the reason behind his nickname here.

Nikola Jokic the Joker

Who is this remarkable basketball player known as Nikola Jokić? Hailing from Serbia, Jokić has made a significant impact in the world of professional basketball as the center for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA. With an impressive record of accomplishments, including five NBA All-Star selections and multiple appearances on the All-NBA Team, Jokić has undoubtedly established himself as one of the top players in the league.

However, what sets him apart is his back-to-back NBA Most Valuable Player Awards for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, solidifying his status as the league's best player. Notably, Jokić also played a pivotal role in securing a silver medal for the Serbian national team during the 2016 Summer Olympics. Affectionately nicknamed "the Joker," Jokić began his NBA journey when he was drafted by the Nuggets in the second round of the 2014 NBA draft.

Despite being a second-round pick, he quickly made a name for himself, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2016. His rise continued in the 2018-19 season when he led the Nuggets to the Western Conference Semifinals and received his first All-Star and All-NBA First Team selections. In the following season, Jokić once again proved his prowess on the court, securing more All-Star and All-NBA honors while leading his team to the Western Conference Finals.

However, it was the 2022-23 NBA season that truly showcased Jokić's brilliance, as he led the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance and was honored as the NBA Western Conference Finals MVP. Jokić's impact on the game goes beyond individual accolades. He has cemented his place among the NBA's elite by ranking in the top 10 on the all-time list of players with the most triple-doubles, encompassing both regular season and playoff performances.

Additionally, he holds the remarkable record for the fastest triple-double achieved in a mere 14 minutes and 33 seconds. With his incredible skills, basketball IQ, and unique style of play, Nikola Jokić has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the sport, captivating fans and leaving them eagerly anticipating his future accomplishments.

Why is Nikola Jokic Called the Joker?

Nikola Jokic, the sensational star of the Denver Nuggets, hails from Serbia, which explains the intriguing pronunciation of his last name as "yo-kitch." However, basketball fans often struggle to get it right, leading to a widespread adoption of his easily pronounceable nickname, The Joker. Interestingly, this moniker is derived from his last name, sharing three letters in common.

While some might associate it with the infamous DC villain, it actually has no connection to the comic book character. The nickname was playfully bestowed upon Jokic by his former teammate, Mike Miller, who found Jokic's last name a tongue twister. Over time, this affectionate nickname has gained immense popularity, and it is now used by almost everyone.

Although Jokic exhibits a serious demeanor on the court, it is widely believed that he possesses a great sense of humor, which adds another layer of meaning to his nickname, The Joker. While he astounds with his basketball skills, including being a two-time MVP, Jokic's off-court charisma and lightheartedness have endeared him to fans around the world. So, whether you're cheering for him as Nikola Jokic or The Joker, there's no denying the incredible impact this Serbian superstar has made in the world of basketball.

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Nikola Jokic NBA Journey

Nikola Jokić's NBA journey began when he was drafted in 2014, although he officially signed a deal in 2015. Displaying his exceptional passing and playmaking abilities as a center, he quickly established himself as an intriguing prospect, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team and finishing third in the Rookie of the Year voting. Jokić's development continued, and in 2017, he garnered recognition by finishing second in the Most Improved Player voting.

In 2018, Jokić came close to leading the Denver Nuggets back to the playoffs for the first time since 2013, narrowly missing out to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Prior to the 2018-2019 NBA season, he signed a substantial $148 million max extension, showcasing the team's belief in his abilities. Jokić rewarded their faith by securing his first NBA All-Star and All-NBA Team selections.

Teaming up with Jamal Murray, Jokić played a pivotal role during the 2019-2020 season, guiding the Nuggets to their first conference finals appearance since 2009 when Carmelo Anthony was on the team. However, it was during the 2020-2021 season that Jokić truly elevated his game to MVP level. He significantly increased his production, averaging an impressive 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists per game, ultimately capturing the coveted MVP award, surpassing the likes of Steph Curry and Joel Embiid.

Jokić has also etched his name in the NBA record books. He holds the record for the quickest triple-double, achieving it in just 14 minutes and 33 seconds, surpassing Jim Tucker's previous mark. With eight triple-doubles in a regular season, Jokić stands alone as the only Nuggets player to accomplish this since Fat Lever's nine triple-doubles in 1988-89. He joins the elite company of Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to record a triple-double with at least 30 points. Additionally, at the age of 23, Jokić became the third youngest player, following Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson, to reach 20 career triple-doubles.

Notably, Jokic's exceptional performance included being the first Nuggets player and center since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to score at least 50 points and 10 assists in a game. His outstanding contributions also earned him the prestigious title of NBA Most Valuable Player, making him the first Nuggets player and center since Shaquille O'Neal in 2000 to receive this esteemed recognition. Jokić's remarkable achievements continue to solidify his status as one of the premier players in the NBA.

Nikola Jokic Family

In a heartwarming tale of love and companionship, Nikola Jokić, the talented center for the Denver Nuggets, tied the knot with his longtime partner Natalija Mačešić. The couple's journey began during their childhood days in Serbia, where their bond blossomed and grew stronger over time. Natalija, a psychology graduate from Minnesota's Metropolitan State University, shares Jokić's passion for sports and has her own athletic background, having played volleyball at a junior college in Oklahoma.

After years of being together, the couple took their relationship to the next level and exchanged vows on October 24, 2020, in a beautiful ceremony held in Jokić's hometown of Sombor, Serbia. Surrounded by their loved ones, they embarked on a lifelong journey of togetherness. As their love story continues to unfold, Jokić and Mačešić welcomed their precious daughter, Ognjena Jokic, into their lives.

Beyond the spotlight of the basketball court, this remarkable couple shares a deep connection and unwavering support for one another. Their story is a testament to the power of love and partnership, showing that behind the scenes of Jokić's incredible basketball achievements, there is a strong and loving family unit that adds richness and meaning to his life.



Why is Nikola Jokic Called the Joker - FAQs

1. When did Nikola Jokić sign his deal with the Denver Nuggets?  

Nikola Jokic signed his deal with the Denver Nuggets in 2015.

2. Has Nikola Jokić won any NBA awards?  

Yes, Nikola Jokić has won multiple awards, including the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons.

3. What records has Nikola Jokić set in the NBA?  

Nikola Jokić holds several records, including the fastest triple-double, being the only Nuggets player with eight triple-doubles in a regular season since 1988-89, and being one of two players to achieve a triple-double with at least 30 points.

4. Who is Nikola Jokić married to?  

Nikola Jokić is married to Natalija Mačešić.

5. Why is Nikola Jokic Called the Joker?

The nickname was playfully bestowed upon Jokic by his former teammate, Mike Miller, who found Jokic's last name a tongue twister. Over time, this affectionate nickname has gained immense popularity, and it is now used by almost everyone.

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