Nikola Jokic further solidified his impressive resume by securing a bronze medal with Serbia in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Ognjen Stojakovic, an assistant coach for the Denver Nuggets and a member of the Serbian coaching team, offered perspective on how Jokic’s performance in the Olympics has changed perceptions in Serbia.
Changing Perceptions in Serbia
Stojakovic pointed out that a lot of people in Serbia are just starting to recognize Jokic’s brilliance. Even though he won a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Jokic did not play as crucial a role as he did in Paris. Stojakovic mentioned that people did not realize the greatness of Nikola. Players aren’t as highly valued without success on the national team, no matter how well they perform elsewhere. crucial contribution of Nikola Jokic to win against Germany of Serbia in the third-place match has raised his status, rightfully acknowledging his outstanding performance.
A Memorable Run in Paris
Serbia’s experience at the 2024 Olympics involved an intense semifinal match against Team USA. Despite coming up slightly short, Stojakovic emphasized the impressive showing of the Serbian team against a talented American lineup. “He commented that we had played a nearly flawless game.” There’s no need to shed tears over it.
Adapting to Jokic’s Unique Style
Stojakovic admitted that teaming up with Jokic is more challenging than it appears. “His atypical nature can be challenging for some players to come to terms with,” he described. Nevertheless, after players become accustomed to Jokic’s style, the outcomes are evident. Stojakovic thinks Jokic’s influence on the game ranks him with basketball’s greatest of all time. He revolutionized the game of basketball. All of those players who are revolutionary are unique. He fits into that group.”
The Nuggets Move Forward
Even though Nikola Jokic had success in the Olympics, the NBA season goes on. The addition of Russell Westbrook and Dario Saric to the roster has the Nuggets feeling hopeful for the future, according to Stojakovic. The team’s foundation is present. He finished by saying, “We progress ahead.”
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