Nikola Jokic Named to Serbian Olympic Preliminary Roster Amid Uncertainty

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic finds himself in the spotlight once again as he was included in the Serbian national team’s preliminary 16-man roster for the upcoming Paris Olympics. The announcement by the nation’s basketball federation comes amidst speculation surrounding the superstar’s participation in the tournament.

Jokic, who recently clinched his third NBA MVP award in May, has remained tight-lipped about his plans for the Olympics. When questioned after the Nuggets’ playoff exit, he maintained a noncommittal stance, stating, “I don’t know, my friend. We will see. I need to think about it.”

While Jokic’s presence on the preliminary roster suggests a potential return to international competition, his participation remains uncertain. The 29-year-old last represented Serbia in the 2022 EuroBasket tournament but opted out of the 2023 FIBA World Cup due to the grueling NBA schedule. However, this offseason began earlier than anticipated for Jokic, following the Nuggets’ playoff disappointment, allowing him time for recreational activities in his native Serbia.

The preliminary roster, curated by national team coach Svetislav Pesic, features several other NBA talents, including Bogdan Bogdanovic (Atlanta Hawks), Nikola Jovic (Miami Heat), Vasilije Micic (Charlotte Hornets), and Aleksej Pokusevski (Hornets).

Nuggets assistant coach Ognjen Stojakovic is set to join the Serbian coaching staff for the Olympics, adding further NBA representation to the team’s contingent. Serbia’s automatic qualification for the 12-team Olympic tournament, secured through their silver-medal performance at the 2023 World Cup, positions them for a challenging group stage encounter against the United States, among others.

Meanwhile, Nuggets guard Jamal Murray has committed to the Canadian national team, while forward Vlatko Cancar aims to return from injury to represent Slovenia in Olympic qualifying tournaments.

As anticipation builds for the Paris Olympics, the basketball world eagerly awaits Jokic’s decision, which could significantly impact Serbia’s medal aspirations.