Nikola Jokić Pays Tribute to His Father in Emotional Interview
In a rare and deeply emotional interview, NBA superstar and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić opened up about the immense impact his father, Branislav Jokić, has had on his life and career. Known for his calm and quiet demeanor, Nikola showed a different side as he became visibly moved while discussing his upbringing, the influence of his family, and especially the sacrifices made by his father. The emotion in his voice and the tears in his eyes revealed just how deeply rooted that bond is.
Interviewer: Nikola, your journey from Sombor to becoming one of the top players in the NBA is incredible. Can you share how your father helped shape that journey?
Nikola Jokić: “My father has been everything to me. Growing up in a small apartment with my parents, two older brothers, and my grandmother wasn’t always easy. But we made the most of it. My father worked hard, always providing for us, never complaining. He spent long hours working as an agricultural engineer, and he also had a stable with horses. He taught me what it means to love what you do and give everything to it. That’s something I carry with me on the court.”
Interviewer: He sounds like an incredibly dedicated man. What are some of the sacrifices you remember him making for you?
Nikola Jokić: “He sacrificed a lot. Time, energy, personal dreams—everything. I remember him coming home late and still taking the time to talk with me about basketball or take me to training. He didn’t have to, but he did it without hesitation. He supported me even when things were uncertain. He always told me to be patient and to work hard, that success comes to those who stay grounded and don’t give up.”
Interviewer: Now that you’ve reached the highest level in basketball, how often do you reflect on those early days and what your father did for you?
Nikola Jokić: “I think about it all the time. Every game, every achievement, I feel like he’s a part of it. I carry his lessons with me. Even now, I go back home and spend time at the stables with the horses because it reminds me of those times. It reminds me of him and the life values he passed on to me—hard work, humility, family. None of this would be possible without what he did for me.”
Interviewer: You’ve remained remarkably grounded despite all your success. What keeps you centered?
Nikola Jokić: “My father always told me to stay humble, to never forget who I am or where I come from. That’s what keeps me grounded. Fame, awards, championships—they come and go. But who you are, how you treat people, that stays. I owe a lot of that perspective to him. He’s the reason I don’t get carried away with all the attention.”
Interviewer: If he were sitting next to you right now, what would you want to say to him?
Nikola Jokić: “I would say thank you. Thank you for everything. For the sacrifices, the support, the example you set. For believing in me and teaching me to believe in myself. I hope he knows that every step I take in this career is because of the path he helped pave. I love him, and I’m grateful beyond words.”
The emotion that poured out of Nikola during the interview painted a powerful picture of the connection between a father and son. It was a rare glimpse into the heart of an athlete often described as stoic and reserved. For Nikola Jokić, the journey to NBA greatness has always been about more than talent. It’s been about family, sacrifice, and a quiet strength passed down from father to son.