Nikola Jokić moved Novak Djokovic: “I will always follow you on your journey to make basketball history.”

The Denver Nuggets may have faced turbulence during the 2024-25 NBA season, but through the storm stood one immovable force: Nikola Jokić. The Serbian center, often hailed as the best basketball player on the planet, delivered a season so dominant and multifaceted that it left analysts, players, and fans in awe. Among those deeply moved by Jokić’s achievements was fellow Serbian legend and tennis icon Novak Djokovic.

In a heartfelt video shared by the Nuggets’ official X (formerly Twitter) account, Djokovic congratulated Jokić in both English and Serbian, bridging the emotional distance between their shared homeland and Denver, Colorado.

Djokovic to Jokić: “You’re Making Serbia Proud”

In the now-viral clip, Djokovic offered sincere admiration for Jokić’s trailblazing performance:

“Nikola, congratulations on another historic season,” said Djokovic. “From our beloved homeland, Serbia, all the way to Denver, we are super proud of you… You’ve broken so many records and made history once again. I’m always a big supporter of yours and will continue watching you make more history. So, congratulations and keep it going.”

Djokovic’s message carried immense weight—not just because of his own status as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, but because it reflects a rare moment of crossover respect from one global sports icon to another. Their mutual Serbian heritage deepened the emotional resonance.

A Season for the History Books

What exactly did Nikola Jokić accomplish to earn such praise? It’s not an exaggeration to call his 2024-25 campaign one of the most remarkable seasons in NBA history. The Denver Nuggets star averaged:

• 29.6 points per game

• 12.7 rebounds

• 10.2 assists

• 1.8 steals

• While shooting 57.6% from the field and 41.7% from three-point range

These numbers are staggering on their own. But Jokić also became only the third player in NBA history—joining Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook—to average a triple-double over a full season.

Breaking Records Left and Right

Jokić didn’t just rack up stats—he shattered records:

• 34 triple-doubles in a single season: the most ever by a center

• Surpassed Magic Johnson for third place all-time in triple-doubles

• Became the fastest player in NBA history to reach 16,000 points, 8,000 rebounds, and 5,000 assists—achieving the milestone in just 739 games

The previous record was held by Larry Bird, who needed 799 games. Jokić outpaced him by 60 games, underscoring his unprecedented efficiency and durability.

All-NBA First Team: A New Franchise Record

For his efforts, Nikola Jokić was named to the All-NBA First Team for the fifth time, a franchise record for the Denver Nuggets. This also marks his seventh consecutive All-NBA selection, cementing his legacy as the greatest player in Nuggets history.

No other player in Denver’s storied history—not Carmelo Anthony, Alex English, nor David Thompson—has come close to matching that level of sustained excellence.

A Modern-Day Big Man Like No Other

In an era where traditional centers are often considered obsolete, Jokić has redefined what’s possible for a big man. His ability to score efficiently, rebound dominantly, and pass like a point guard makes him a true unicorn in modern basketball.

Statistically, he became the first player in NBA history to rank in the top three in points per game, assists per game, and rebounds per game in a single season.

Even legends of the game are struggling to find comparisons. While Stephen Curry may be the heartbeat of the Golden State Warriors, Jokić’s impact on Denver’s system is arguably even more profound.

Game 7 vs. Thunder: A Glimpse of His Value

Nowhere was Jokić’s importance more evident than in Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a twist of fate, the Nuggets built a +10 lead while Jokić rested—an edge they couldn’t maintain once he returned. The game served as a paradoxical reminder that the team structure is entirely built around Jokić, and when he’s not executing at full force, even a 10-point buffer feels fragile.

Beyond Basketball: A Symbol of Serbian Excellence

What makes this story even more compelling is the cultural impact. Both Jokić and Djokovic are global ambassadors of Serbian excellence. They come from vastly different sports, but share common values: humility, discipline, and relentless pursuit of greatness.

Djokovic’s heartfelt message wasn’t just fan appreciation—it was a symbolic passing of the torch from one generation of Serbian greatness to another. It’s also a testament to how Jokić has become a source of national pride, inspiring millions not just in Serbia, but across Europe.

The Making of an All-Time Great

Let’s review the historical benchmarks Jokić has either tied or surpassed this season:

At just 30 years old, the sky remains the limit. With each passing year, Jokić builds on his legacy—not through flashiness or viral highlights—but through an elegant, cerebral style of basketball that commands respect.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Joker?

The only thing missing from Nikola Jokić’s trophy cabinet this year was another NBA Championship. After lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy in 2023, expectations have only grown.

If the Nuggets can refine their supporting cast and remain healthy, there’s every reason to believe Jokić can lead them to multiple titles. His chemistry with Jamal Murray, mentorship of young players, and tactical understanding of the game gives Denver an unmatched foundation.

Conclusion: A Legacy Etched in Stone

As Novak Djokovic said:

“You’re proving everyone wrong who said you couldn’t surpass what you did in the last three or four years.”

It’s a powerful truth. Jokić is not just meeting expectations—he’s obliterating them, season after season.

He is now not just a franchise player or an MVP—he’s a symbol of sporting excellence, a Serbian icon, and a basketball revolutionary who’s forcing the NBA to rethink the ceiling for what a big man can do.