Nikola Jokic Shines Amid Personal Grief, Leading Denver Nuggets to Victory

Denver Nuggets’ star Nikola Jokic, facing personal tragedy after the unexpected death of his former coach Dejan Milojevic, found solace and joy in basketball. During his first interview since Milojevic’s passing, Jokic, known for his occasional sardonic interactions with the press, enthusiastically discussed the Nuggets’ recent win over the Indiana Pacers.

In a week marked by shock and grief, basketball served as a sanctuary for Jokic, allowing him to honor his mentor through his passion for the game. Despite the somber tone surrounding Milojevic’s death, Jokic acknowledged the importance of basketball in bringing him joy during this challenging time.

“I don’t want to make a circus of it,” Jokic said Tuesday, acknowledging that it has been a sad week for him. “My whole family was shocked. … I love his whole family.”

Jokic’s exceptional performances on the court, including a season-high 42 points against the Washington Wizards, reflected his commitment to the sport and provided a form of tribute to Milojevic. The coach, who suffered a heart attack during a team dinner, had played a crucial role in Jokic’s development during their time together at the Serbian club Mega Basket.

In the last three games, Jokic showcased his brilliance, scoring 34 points in a significant win against the Boston Celtics and delivering a triple-double with 31 points against the Indiana Pacers. His outstanding performances contributed to the Nuggets’ success on the road, highlighting Jokic’s ability to lead the team even amid personal grief.

“The first half was bad. The second half, just the effort of not celebrating,” Jokic said, laughing. “Just, when you score, sprint back. Set our defense. I think when we set our defense, our defense is really good.”

Jokic’s partnership with Jamal Murray demonstrated a remarkable two-man game, leading to crucial plays and victories for the Nuggets. The duo’s combined efforts showcased the team’s potential, with Jokic emphasizing the importance of making shots and building confidence as a unit.

While Jokic remained reserved about the emotional impact of Milojevic’s death, his actions on the court spoke volumes. The Nuggets’ recent road wins and Jokic’s impressive statistics reflected not only his basketball prowess but also his ability to navigate personal challenges while leading his team.

“I love him,” Jokic said in his brief comments about Milojevic.

As Denver sits at the top of the Western Conference standings, Jokic’s dedication to the game and his mentor’s memory continues to be a driving force for the Nuggets. The private and reserved athlete, known for concealing emotions, expressed his love for Milojevic, revealing the deep connection they shared through basketball.