Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets superstar and three-time NBA MVP (2020-21, 2021-22, 2023-24), stands out as a rare figure in the league, primarily because the player many consider the NBA’s best allegedly doesn’t obsess over basketball itself.
Jokic is a passionate equestrian, frequently visiting local stables and racetracks, and even competing in amateur harness racing events; his well-documented love for horses serves as a primary way to recharge away from the court.
This summer, the typically low-key superstar has also been spotted rafting shirtless down Serbia’s Tara River, drink in hand, embodying his relaxed, anti-celebrity persona, while fans along the banks greeted him with spontaneous “MVP” chants.
Demonstrating his characteristic curiosity, another viral clip showed the 7-foot Jokic trying Sepak Takraw, a Southeast Asian sport blending soccer and volleyball, displaying surprising nimbleness and drawing admiration for his coordination.
Despite averaging a career-best triple-double (29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, 10.2 assists) in 2024-25 and narrowly finishing runner-up to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for a fourth MVP, Jokic remains detached from the Nuggets’ turbulent offseason, which includes firing GM Calvin Booth and tough roster decisions.
For Jokic, this Serbian respite is solely about mental clarity, family, and finding joy far from the NBA spotlight, leading fans to rightly observe that Nikola has the best summers.
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