Caroline Joseph is a Primary Editor for the NBA division at EssentiallySports, who covers the post-retirement lives of basketball legends such as Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and many more. From publishing companies to e-learning agencies and animation studios, she has worked with a plethora of content creation and curation groups over the span of a decade.  

Her fascination with these NBA icons began at the tender age of ten when she was entranced by the classic movie “Space Jam”. Her hobbies include a passion for writing science fiction and singing live on stage. Through her editorial lens, Caroline uses a meticulous approach to fact-checking and mentoring writers to achieve standard journalism practices.

 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dwight Howard (@dwighthoward) [https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6EfHKIrLCn/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading] He also used to speak with other players and coaches to understand more about Jokic. “..Just so I can have a mental edge. People think I’m joking and having a good time, they don’t realize I’m ready to kill...” Going back to the Lakers, they still have a chance at turning the tide. Denver will need two more wins to sweep the series, but LeBron James and Co. very well have the option to deny them that chance. But the Nuggets are the champions for a reason.

Kevin Garnett agrees with former LA Lakers player Dwight Howard assesment on Jokic and how to stop him in playoffs

Pranav Kotai is an NBA beat writer at EssentiallySports. With a master's in
sports management and a lifelong passion for basketball, Pranav has an indepth
understanding of the sport like no other. Pranav is an open encyclopedia of all
storylines, with a well-rounded approach to his writing, especially for his
favorites like NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley. Apart from his
technical know-how, he also has a strong penchant for identifying personal
stories. In his spare time, Pranav enjoys diving into the world of other sports,
with a particular interest in F1, football, and cricket.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Pranav-Kotai-150x150.png

Pranav Kotai

script

Kevin Garnett Sides With Dwight Howard As Lakers Lose 10 Straight to Nikola
Jokic

Carmelo Anthony Seals Deal for $4.77 Billion Madison Square Garden, Squashing
Past Beef With James Dolan

LeBron James’ Major ESPN Move Confirmed After Stephen A. Smith Announces
Conversation With Lakers Front Office

Doc Rivers Urges NBA for Change as Giannis Antetokounmpo Makes Strong Locker
Room Demand After Suns Loss

Guilty Luka Doncic Sends Strong Message to Lakers After Realizing What He
Shouldn’t Do With LeBron James

Cavs Locker Room in Agreement Over Darius Garland’s Actions as National Reporter
Warns Kenny Atkinson of Major Setback

Basketball

Basketball Archives

Basketball Archives - EssentiallySports

EssentiallySports

https://www.staging.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/es_circle_black_logo.png

title

description

robots

link

Kevin Garnett Sides With Dwight Howard As Lakers Lose 10 Straight to Nikola Jokic

https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-legends-basketball-news-kevin-garnett-sides-with-dwight-howard-as-lakers-lose-ten-straight-to-nikola-jokic/

https://www.facebook.com/essentiallysports

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Nikola-Jokic-Kevin-Garnett-Dwight-Howard.jpg

author

twitter:card

twitter:creator

twitter:site

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dwight Howard: Net worth, Salary, and Endorsements</h2>
Dwight Howard is a <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/los-angeles-lakers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Los Angeles Lakers</a> player who went as the #1 overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. Howard is regarded as one of the Top centers at the moment and he won his maiden NBA championship in 2020 with the Lakers. 

Howard was born in 1985 in Atlanta, Georgia. He attended high-school at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy and excelled as a basketball player. Howard mostly played as a small forward and he enjoyed a breakthrough season in his senior year. 

[caption id="attachment_411628" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-411628" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20201015205912/2020-10-12T042707Z_2065757007_NOCID_RTRMADP_3_NBA-FINALS-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-AT-MIAMI-HEAT.jpg" alt="Dwight Howard Celebrates With The 2020 NBA Title" width="1920" height="1279" /> Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Dwight Howard is one of the most decorated high-school players to date. He averaged 25.0 points, 18.0 rebounds, 8.1 blocks in his senior year and earned several accolades. He was named Naismith Prep Player of the Year, Gatorade National Player of the Year, and won the Morgan Wootten High School Player of the Year Award. 

Howard also starred in the 2004 McDonald’s All-American game and took home the MVP honors along with J.R. Smith. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-lebron-james-and-dwight-howard-top-the-elite-list-of-high-school-players-to-win-three-major-individual-honors-chris-webber-michael-porter-jr-los-angeles-lakers-denver-nuggets-basketball/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LeBron James and Dwight Howard Top the Elite List of High-School Players to Win Three Major Individual Honors</a>

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dwight Howard NBA career </h2>
Dwight Howard earned a massive reputation as a high-schooler and he decided to forego college and join the <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NBA</a>. It was a similar move to that of Kevin Garnett in 1995 and it made sense because Howard idolized Garnett.

The <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/orlando-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Orlando Magic</a> had the #1 pick in the 2004 draft, and they weren’t willing to give up a player of Howard’s quality even though he had no college experience. The 6’10” center wasted no time in settling into the league and immediately showcased his talent on the big stage.

Howard started all 82 games for the Magic in his rookie season which went down as an NBA record. He showed tremendous room for improvement and by the 2008 season, Howard was one of the best players in the NBA by far. He won three successive DPOY awards from 2009-2011.

[caption id="attachment_407310" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-407310" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20201011203504/2020-10-10T013322Z_1346946769_NOCID_RTRMADP_3_NBA-FINALS-MIAMI-HEAT-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-1.jpg" alt="Jimmy Butler Goes Up For A Layup" width="1920" height="1280" /> Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Howard led the Magic to their second finals series in franchise history against the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009. He was simply sensational throughout the series and averaged 15.4 points and 15.2 rebounds in five games, even though it came at a losing cause. 

A <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-former-teammate-shuts-down-dwight-howard-critics-over-his-controversial-exit-from-orlando-magic-jameer-nelson-basketball/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">few misunderstandings</a> led to Howard’s exit from the team after which he struggled to replicate his form. Short stints with five different teams including the Lakers hurt his career as he lost his footing as the best center in the league. 

Howard came back to Los Angeles in 2019 and re-signed with the Lakers for a second time. This stint proved to be monumental as Howard earned his first chip in 2020. He anchored the Lakers’ defense and put up a strong performance in the <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/orlando-bubble/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NBA bubble</a> to guide the team to the championship. 
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Major Achievements </h2>
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">NBA champion (2020)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">8× NBA All-Star (2007–2014)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">5× All-NBA First Team (2008–2012)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">All-NBA Second Team (2014)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">2× All-NBA Third Team (2007, 2013)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">3× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2009–2011)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2012)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2008)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">NBA All-Rookie First Team (2005)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">5× NBA rebounding leader (2008–2010, 2012, 2013)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">2× NBA blocks leader (2009, 2010)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2008)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2004)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (2004)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">First-team Parade All-American (2004)</li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;">Mr. Georgia Basketball (2004)</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dwight Howard NBA Stats </h2>
Dwight Howard peaked during his final years with the Magic as he put up tremendous numbers. He displayed massive leadership during his time in Orlando and will undoubtedly become a Hall of Famer in the future.

[caption id="attachment_411627" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-411627" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20201015205852/2020-10-12T022112Z_1954481329_NOCID_RTRMADP_3_NBA-FINALS-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-AT-MIAMI-HEAT.jpg" alt="Dwight Howard Celebrates Winning The Championship With LeBron James" width="1920" height="1280" /> Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Howard posted career-high point <a href="https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/howardw01.html">averages</a> during the 2010-11 NBA season. He put up 22.9 points per game and recorded 14.1 rebounds. Here are his career statistics as recorded at the end of the 2019/20 regular-season. 
<table style="height: 131px;" width="536">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">G</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">GS</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">MP</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">FG%</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">FT%</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">TRB</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">AST</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">STL</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">BLK</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">PTS</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">1113</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1045</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">33.5</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">.586</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">.565</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">12.3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1.4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0.9</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1.9</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">16.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dwight Howard Current Contract</h2>
Dwight Howard signed a one-year deal with the Lakers worth $2,564,753. He is represented by his <a href="https://hoopshype.com/player/dwight-howard/salary/">agent</a> Charles Briscoe of Briscoe Sports Group, who made him the 11th most paid Laker during the 2019/20 season. 

As things stand, Howard is currently an unrestricted free-agent eying to sign a lucrative contract with any team who wants to avail his service. 
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dwight Howard Net Worth and Endorsements </h2>
Dwight Howard has made a lot of money through his contracts and endorsement deals. He was once the top-paid player in the league but doesn’t enjoy the status anymore. However, he is still worth a lot and <a href="https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-athletes/nba/dwight-howard-net-worth/#:~:text=Dwight%20Howard%20Net%20Worth%20and,net%20worth%20of%20%24140%20million.">Celebrity Net Worth</a> estimates Howard’s value at $140 million. 

Furthermore, Howard has endorsed several brands in his career which includes the likes of Adidas and McDonalds. He signed a <a href="https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/confirmed_peak_sport_sign_nba_star_dwight_howard#:~:text=Confirmed%3A%20Peak%20Sport%20signs%20NBA,NBA%20player%20to%20sponsorship%20roster.&amp;text=National%20Basketball%20Association%20(NBA)%20star,with%20Chinese%20sportswear%20manufacturer%20Peak.">multi-year deal</a> in 2015 with Chinese brand ‘Peak Sport’ and the overall value was around $31.5 million. 
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Dwight Howard Sneaker Contract</h2>
During his Magic days, Howard had signed a lucrative sneaker deal with Adidas, but the deal has now expired. Moreover, his contract with Chinese brand ‘Peak’ has also come to an end, and Howard was wearing Adidas Kobe editions for most of the 2020 season. 

It was reported that Howard <a href="https://fadeawayworld.net/2020/10/01/dwight-howard-passed-on-6-figure-sneaker-deal-offers-back-in-february-because-he-wanted-to-continue-wearing-kobes/#:~:text=NBA%202K21-,Dwight%20Howard%20Passed%20On%206%2DFigure%20Sneaker%20Deal%20Offers%20Back,Wanted%20To%20Continue%20Wearing%20Kobes&amp;text=Dwight%20Howard%20may%20have%20lost,came%20out%20as%20a%20winner.">passed on</a> humungous sneaker deals to rep Kobe sneakers in honor of the fallen legend. Howard donned the ‘Nike Kobe V Proto’ and the ‘Nike Kobe AD Exodus’ during the 2019/20 season.
<table style="height: 510px;" width="528">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Age
</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Marital Status</td>
<td>
Engaged (Te’a Cooper)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Children
</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">Five</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">NBA Championship Rings</td>
<td>
1 ( 2020)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Nationality
</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Height</td>
<td>
6′ 10″ (2.08 m)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Weight
</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">186 lbs (84 kg)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Wingspan</td>
<td>
7’5” (2.13m)
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 style="text-align: center;"> How to contact Dwight Howard </h2>
Dwight Howard Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dwighthoward/">dwighthoward</a>
Dwight Howard Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/dwighthoward?lang=en">@DwightHoward</a>

Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard: Net worth, Salary, and Endorsements Dwight Howard is a Los Angeles Lakers player who went as the #1 overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. Howard is regarded as one of the Top centers at the moment and he won his maiden NBA championship in 2020 with the Lakers.  Howard was born in 1985 in Atlanta, Georgia. He attended high-school at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy and excelled as a basketball player. Howard mostly played as a small forward and he enjoyed a breakthrough season in his senior year.  Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Dwight Howard is one of the most decorated high-school players to date. He averaged 25.0 points, 18.0 rebounds, 8.1 blocks in his senior year and earned several accolades. He was named Naismith Prep Player of the Year, Gatorade National Player of the Year, and won the Morgan Wootten High School Player of the Year Award.  Howard also starred in the 2004 McDonald’s All-American game and took home the MVP honors along with J.R. Smith.  Also Read: LeBron James and Dwight Howard Top the Elite List of High-School Players to Win Three Major Individual Honors Dwight Howard NBA career  Dwight Howard earned a massive reputation as a high-schooler and he decided to forego college and join the NBA. It was a similar move to that of Kevin Garnett in 1995 and it made sense because Howard idolized Garnett. The Orlando Magic had the #1 pick in the 2004 draft, and they weren’t willing to give up a player of Howard’s quality even though he had no college experience. The 6’10” center wasted no time in settling into the league and immediately showcased his talent on the big stage. Howard started all 82 games for the Magic in his rookie season which went down as an NBA record. He showed tremendous room for improvement and by the 2008 season, Howard was one of the best players in the NBA by far. He won three successive DPOY awards from 2009-2011. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Howard led the Magic to their second finals series in franchise history against the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009. He was simply sensational throughout the series and averaged 15.4 points and 15.2 rebounds in five games, even though it came at a losing cause.  A few misunderstandings led to Howard’s exit from the team after which he struggled to replicate his form. Short stints with five different teams including the Lakers hurt his career as he lost his footing as the best center in the league.  Howard came back to Los Angeles in 2019 and re-signed with the Lakers for a second time. This stint proved to be monumental as Howard earned his first chip in 2020. He anchored the Lakers’ defense and put up a strong performance in the NBA bubble to guide the team to the championship.  Major Achievements  NBA champion (2020) 8× NBA All-Star (2007–2014) 5× All-NBA First Team (2008–2012) All-NBA Second Team (2014) 2× All-NBA Third Team (2007, 2013) 3× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2009–2011) 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2012) NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2008) NBA All-Rookie First Team (2005) 5× NBA rebounding leader (2008–2010, 2012, 2013) 2× NBA blocks leader (2009, 2010) NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2008) Naismith Prep Player of the Year (2004) McDonald&#8217;s All-American Game Co-MVP (2004) First-team Parade All-American (2004) Mr. Georgia Basketball (2004) Dwight Howard NBA Stats  Dwight Howard peaked during his final years with the Magic as he put up tremendous numbers. He displayed massive leadership during his time in Orlando and will undoubtedly become a Hall of Famer in the future. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Howard posted career-high point averages during the 2010-11 NBA season. He put up 22.9 points per game and recorded 14.1 rebounds. Here are his career statistics as recorded at the end of the 2019/20 regular-season.   G GS MP FG% FT% TRB AST STL BLK PTS  1113 1045 33.5 .586 .565 12.3 1.4 0.9 1.9 16.7  Dwight Howard Current Contract Dwight Howard signed a one-year deal with the Lakers worth $2,564,753. He is represented by his agent Charles Briscoe of Briscoe Sports Group, who made him the 11th most paid Laker during the 2019/20 season.  As things stand, Howard is currently an unrestricted free-agent eying to sign a lucrative contract with any team who wants to avail his service.  Dwight Howard Net Worth and Endorsements  Dwight Howard has made a lot of money through his contracts and endorsement deals. He was once the top-paid player in the league but doesn’t enjoy the status anymore. However, he is still worth a lot and Celebrity Net Worth estimates Howard’s value at $140 million.  Furthermore, Howard has endorsed several brands in his career which includes the likes of Adidas and McDonalds. He signed a multi-year deal in 2015 with Chinese brand ‘Peak Sport’ and the overall value was around $31.5 million.  Dwight Howard Sneaker Contract During his Magic days, Howard had signed a lucrative sneaker deal with Adidas, but the deal has now expired. Moreover, his contract with Chinese brand ‘Peak’ has also come to an end, and Howard was wearing Adidas Kobe editions for most of the 2020 season.  It was reported that Howard passed on humungous sneaker deals to rep Kobe sneakers in honor of the fallen legend. Howard donned the ‘Nike Kobe V Proto’ and the ‘Nike Kobe AD Exodus’ during the 2019/20 season.   Age 26  Marital Status Engaged (Te’a Cooper)   Children Five  NBA Championship Rings 1 ( 2020)   Nationality American  Height 6′ 10″ (2.08 m)   Weight 186 lbs (84 kg)  Wingspan 7’5” (2.13m)    How to contact Dwight Howard  Dwight Howard Instagram: dwighthoward Dwight Howard Twitter: @DwightHoward

Dwight Howard Archives

Dwight Howard Archives - EssentiallySports

LeBron James

Who is LeBron James? LeBron James is widely considered to be one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball. Born in Akron, James spent the majority of his professional career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers, winning multiple NBA championships and earning numerous accolades along the way. Dec 7, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA In Season Tournament Semifinal at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports &nbsp; Known for his exceptional all-around game, James is a four-time MVP and has been selected to the All-Star team a record 18 times. LeBron James&#8217; early life LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. James started playing basketball at a young age, showing great potential. He soon became one of the best high school basketball players in the country. James graduated from St. Vincent&#8217;s St. Mary High School and declared for the NBA draft in 2003. James led St. Vincent&#8217;s St. Mary to three state championships in four years. With Keith Dambrot and Dru Joyce II coaching the side for two years each, the Fighting Irish had a record of 101 victories and 6 losses during James&#8217; time. LeBron James&#8217; wife and children LeBron James was raised by his mother Gloria James, who struggled to make ends meet as a single mother. Not much is known about James&#8217; biological father Anthony McClelland, who was largely absent from LeBron&#8217;s life during his childhood. He is also reported to have criminal records to his name. James has been in a relationship with his high school sweetheart Savannah since his teenage years. The couple tied the knot on September 14, 2013. Savannah James has indulged in several business ventures over the years and is also a noted philanthropist. She has also established a mentorship program for young women. LeBron and Savannah have three children together: Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri James. Both Bronny and Bryce are following in their father&#8217;s footsteps to become basketball stars. In December 2023, Bronny made his long-awaited collegiate debut with the USC Trojans, less than five months after suffering cardiac arrest in July. LeBron James&#8217; net worth 2024 LeBron James has an estimated net worth of $1 billion, according to recent reports. James is the first active NBA star to achieve this feat. The four-time NBA champion signed a two-year $97.1 million contract extension with theÂ Los Angeles Lakers last year. As per reports, James has earned around $387 million in salaries in his 20-year NBA career so far. Furthermore, he has also made a fortune with his endorsement deals and investments, which have helped him build his massive business empire. LeBron James&#8217; NBA career timeline TheÂ Cleveland Cavaliers selected hometown boy LeBron James as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft. James was a superstar straight out of high school and took the league by storm. He played for the Cavaliers from 2003 to 2010 in his first stint and won MVP awards in 2009 and 2010. Even though the Akron Hammer was almost unstoppable on the court and won many individual accolades, team success was hard to come by. Bilder des Tages &#8211; SPORT NBA Playoffs, Cleveland Cavaliers &#8211; Indiana Pacers April 25, 2018 &#8211; Cleveland, OH, USA &#8211; The Cleveland Cavaliers LeBron James celebrates a basket and foul in the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland. The Cleveland Cavaliers won, 98-95, for a 3-2 lead in the first-round NBA Basketball Herren USA playoff series. Game 5: Indiana at Cleveland &#8211; ZUMAm67_ 20180425_zaf_m67_043 Copyright: xLeahxKlafczynskix James then left the Cavs and took his talents to theÂ Miami Heat in 2010. He received major backlash from Cavs fans after this move. However, he continued his dominance, alongside superstars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh for the Heat, and clinched his first NBA title in 2012, followed by another in 2013. He also won the NBA MVP award and the Finals MVP award in 2012 and 2013. The estranged son then returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 and took the team to four straight NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. He helped the Cavs win their first-ever NBA title in 2016. James once again left the Cavs, this time to join the Los Angeles Lakers, in 2018 and led them to the 2020 NBA title.Â  Following the retirements of Udonis Haslem and Andre Iguodala, LeBron James is currently the oldest player in the league. On the 21st of November 2023, James became the first player in league history to reach 39,000 career points. Six days later, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar&#8217;s record of 66,300 minutes to become the player with the most minutes played in NBA games during the regular season and playoffs. LeBron James contracts Here&#8217;s a breakdown of LeBron James&#8217; contracts and earnings throughout his NBA career:  Year Team Salary    2023-24 Los Angeles Lakers $47,607,350  2022-23 Los Angeles Lakers $44,474,988  2021-22 Los Angeles Lakers $41,180,544  2020-21 Los Angeles Lakers $39,219,566  2019/20 Los Angeles Lakers $37,436,858 ($37,678,600*)  2018/19 Los Angeles Lakers $35,654,150 ($36,475,929*)  2017/18 Cleveland Cavaliers $33,285,709 ($35,030,744*)  2016/17 Cleveland Cavaliers $30,963,450 ($33,119,038*)  2015/16 Cleveland Cavaliers $22,970,500 ($24,814,681*)  2014/15 Cleveland Cavaliers $20,644,400 ($22,329,434*)  2013/14 Miami Heat $19,067,500 ($21,051,220*)  2012/13 Miami Heat $17,545,000 ($19,710,161*)  2011/12 Miami Heat $16,022,500 ($18,299,290*)  2010/11 Miami Heat $14,500,000 ($17,149,801*)  2009/10 Cleveland Cavaliers $15,779,912 ($18,860,203*)  2008/09 Cleveland Cavaliers $14,410,581 ($16,977,833*)  2007/08 Cleveland Cavaliers $13,041,250 ($16,136,130*)  2006/07 Cleveland Cavaliers $5,828,090 ($7,404,948*)  2005/06 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,621,800 ($6,125,892*)  2004/05 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,320,360 ($5,871,248*)  2003/04 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,018,920 ($5,639,986*)   &nbsp; LeBron James&#8217; NBA career stats Regular season games played &#8211; 1467 Regular season points per game &#8211; 27.1 Regular season rebounds per game &#8211; 7.5 Regular season assists per game &#8211; 7.3 Playoff games played &#8211; 282 Postseason points per game &#8211; 28.5 Postseason rebounds per game &#8211; 9 Postseason assists per game &#8211; 7.2 LeBron James&#8217; investments and endorsements Some of the biggest brands endorsed by LeBron James are as follows: Nike McDonald&#8217;s Blaze Pizza Beats Electronics Sprite Upper Deck State Farm Insurance Audemars Piguet Dunkin&#8217; Donuts Samsung Kia Verizon Intel Lobos 1707 LeBron James has made some very smart investments over the years, which have helped him substantially. Two of James&#8217; most important investments are Blaze Pizza and the English soccer club, Liverpool F.C. LeBron James&#8217; achievements and awards 4Ã— NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4Ã— NBA Finals MVP (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013) 19Ã— NBA All-Star (2005â€“2023) 3Ã— NBA All-Star Game MVP (2006, 2008, 2018) 13Ã— All-NBA First Team (2006, 2008â€“2018, 2020) 3Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2007, 2021) 3Ã— All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2022, 2023) 5Ã— NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009â€“2013) NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014) NBA Rookie of the Year (2004) NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004) NBA scoring champion (2008) NBA assists leader (2020) NBA 75th Anniversary Team AP Athlete of the Decade (the 2010s) 4Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020) 3Ã— Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020) USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2012) 2Ã— National high school player of the year (2002, 2003) McDonald&#8217;s All-American Game MVP (2003) 2Ã— First-team Parade All-American (2002, 2003) 3Ã— Ohio Mr. Basketball (2001â€“2003) 3x USA Today All-USA First Team (2001-2003) No. 23 retired by St. Vincentâ€“St. Mary LeBron James&#8217; charity and foundation Some of the biggest donations made by LeBron James are to the charities: After-school All-Stars Mohammed Ali: A Force for Change Boys and Girls Club of America Children&#8217;s Defence Fund ONEXONE I Promise School Most of these charities are aimed at helping children and the younger generation. King James is dedicated to providing the youth of America, especially those at risk, the opportunity required to prosper in life with his &#8216;I Promise&#8217; initiative. LeBron James&#8217; rings Over his illustrious 20-year career (and counting), James has won four NBA championships. He has led three different franchises &#8211; the Miami Heat, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles Lakers &#8211; to NBA titles. James&#8217; first title came in 2012 with the Heat, when he won his first Finals MVP award, followed by a second consecutive title in 2013. After returning to Cleveland in 2014, James delivered on his promise to bring the city its first major sports championship in over 50 years. In 2016, James powered the Cavaliers back from a daunting 3-1 deficit against the record-setting Golden State Warriors in the Finals. James won his 4th championship and NBA Finals MVP award in 2020, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a championship against his former side, the Miami Heat. LeBron James&#8217; shoe deals LeBron James signed a huge deal with Nike even before he entered the NBA. As James&#8217; superstardom rose, he became one of the most important faces of the brand, with his line of signature shoes, which is in its 20th version now. The four-time NBA MVP signed a lifetime deal with Nike in 2015 for an undisclosed fee. LeBron James&#8217; house LeBron James has reiterated multiple times that he does not spend his hard-earned money without reason. Former teammate Dwyane Wade once revealed that James is one of the cheapest players in the league despite being one of the richest. However, James knows how to spend his fortune in style. And when it comes to where he lives, the King does not compromise. According to reports, LeBron owns multiple properties in California, Ohio, and Miami, that are worth a combined estimated value of $100 million. LeBron James&#8217; car collection LeBron James is known for having an extensive collection of cars, estimated to be worth over $2 million. Some of the standouts include a Chevy Camaro SS, a 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder, and the Dodge Challenger SRT 392. He also owns a Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, a 720-horsepower V12 supercar. Another notable element of his collection is a Mercedes luxury sedan, the Maybach S650, worth around $200,000. Notably, after teaming up with Shaquille O&#8217;Neal in Cleveland, Shaq gifted LeBron a Rolls Royce Phantom for his 25th birthday. The luxury car goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds and is valued at around $505,000. LeBron James&#8217; controversial moments LeBron James has not had any major controversies so far. However, there have been a few questionable moments in his career. James was the centerpiece of controversy during his high school career for accepting gifts. Then his infamous move to the Miami Heat in 2010, announced on national television, stirred up a lot of controversy. James, who is very vocal about his political beliefs, was criticized for his association with Nike because of the brand&#8217;s political stance. Also, his comments on America after Brittney Griner&#8217;s detainment in Russia sparked some controversy. Will LeBron James retire? LeBron James, 39, is currently playing his 21st NBA season in the NBA. The future Hall of Famer is still playing at the highest level, but he is definitely at the tail end of his career. However, the Lakers icon will not retire after the 2023-24 season as he has multiple times opened up about his desire to play alongside his son Bronny James in the league. Bronny will be eligible to declare for the NBA draft next year. So there is a high chance that James may continue playing in the league until his son enters the NBA. LeBron James&#8217; social media accounts  Instagram @kingjames  Twitter @KingJames  Facebook @LeBron James  Website https://www.lebronjames.com/  &nbsp;  Full Name LeBron Raymone James Sr.  Popular Name LeBron James  Birth Date December 30, 1984  Birth Place Akron, Ohio  Height 6&#8242; 9&#8243; (2.06 m)  Weight 250 lbs  Parents Gloria James  Siblings None  Nationality American  Ethnicity African American  Net Worth $1 Billion  Salary $97.1 Million  Spouse Savannah James  Relationship/Marital Status Married  Children Three  Profession Basketball player  Team Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James Archives

LeBron James Archives - EssentiallySports

<h2 style="text-align: center">Who is Nikola Jokic?</h2>
28-year-old Nikola Jokic is a Serbian big man who plays for the <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/denver-nuggets/">Denver Nuggets</a>. The 41st pick in the 2014 Draft is a 2x NBA MVP and 2023 NBA Champion. The father of one is also a devout horse racer, owning over a dozen horses in his home country that compete in professional races.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Early Life</h2>
Nikola Jokic was born on February 19, 1995, in Sombor, Serbia. The 'Joker' spent most of his early life in Serbia with his family. Nikola Jokic's father is Branislav Jokic, who is an agricultural engineer. Details about Jokic's mother are not public, so very little is known about her except that Nikola and his two older brothers were raised by their parents and their grandmother in a tiny apartment. The 2x NBA MVP started playing basketball with his brothers, Strahinja and Nemanja Jokic, at a very young age.

While Strahinja played professional basketball in Europe, Nemanja played college basketball in the US. Nikola developed a love for the game of basketball from a very young age, playing with his older brothers. After impressing many playing youth basketball, Jokic started playing in the Serbian professional league in 2012. He graduated high school, but he did not attend college.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Wife and Children</h2>
Jokic has been in a long-term relationship with his high school sweetheart, Natalija Jokic. Natalija played volleyball for the Florida Seminoles in 2o13. When Nikola Jokic moved to Denver in 2015, she relocated to live with him. The two later tied the knot on October 24th, 2020, in Sombor, their hometown. The couple welcomed their daughter Ognjena Jokic, in September 2021.

[caption id="attachment_1818053" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1818053" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-06-13T034237Z_360969664_MT1USATODAY20881601_RTRMADP_3_NBA-FINALS-MIAMI-HEAT-AT-DENVER-NUGGETS.jpg" alt="Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets" width="1920" height="1250" /> Jun 12, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver awards the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP Award to Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) after the Nuggets won the 2023 NBA Championship against the Miami Heat at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters[/caption]

The Jokics are a very closely knit and can be seen courtside during most home games. The 6x NBA All-Star is a family man and has multiple practices up his sleeve to drive home the importance of family. Notably, <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-basketball-news-nikola-jokics-wholesome-ritual-in-the-presence-of-his-family-vs-celtics-makes-nba-fans-suggest-hes-winning-life/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jokic ties his wedding ring to his sneakers while playing</a> and also has an adorable hand gesture for his daughter who is courtside which relates to one of her favorite songs.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Net Worth 2024</h2>
Nikola Jokic reportedly has a net worth of around $50 million. The Serbian signed a <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-active-basketball-news-tennis-news-novak-djokovic-falls-thirty-one-million-short-of-fellow-serbian-star-nikola-jokic-despite-being-atps-two-thousand-twenty-three-highest-earner-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">massive $272 million contract extension</a> with the Denver Nuggets in 2022. With this improved contract, Jokic will earn around $47 million for the current season. So far, the towering center has amassed over $190 million in NBA salary. He also reportedly earns around $750,000 per year from his endorsement deals with companies like Nike, Panini, and Western Union.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokic's Career</h2>
Nikola Jokic initially started playing youth basketball with KK Vojvodina Srbijagas. As his performances improved, Jokic gained attention from some of the most popular teams in Serbia. Then in 2012, KK Mega Basket came calling and Jokic signed his first pro contract with the Belgrade-based team. However, he still mostly played for the junior team throughout the 2012-13 season to hone his skills. In the next season, Jokic received more game time from the senior team, grabbing the opportunity with both hands. In 2014, Nikola Jokic declared for the NBA draft.

The Denver Nuggets famously selected the 'Joker' as the 41st overall pick in the second round <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-active-basketball-news-nikola-jokic-draft-class-forty-players-and-a-taco-bell-commercial-overshadowed-two-time-mvps-big-night/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">during a commercial break for 'Taco Bell'</a>. The 6'11" center then returned to KK Mega Basket to continue his development. After another successful year in the Serbian League where he won the Adriatic League MVP Award, Jokic joined the Nuggets to pursue his NBA career in 2015. Jokic's versatility was evident right from the start in his rookie season.

He averaged 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in his first season, playing 80 games and starting 55. The Nuggets' faith in the young star was also clear. Furthermore, his displays earned him a spot on the All-Rookie First Team. From there, Jokic progressed quickly, finishing his second year with 6 triple-doubles (4th highest that year) and a second place in the Most Improved Player race. The next season was when the 'Joker' established himself as a premier threat, recording the fastest triple-double in NBA history.

From 2019 onwards, Jokic has made the All-Star team for five straight years. He then became one of the best players in the league and won back-to-back NBA MVP honors in 2021 and 2022. Though he couldn't win three consecutive regular-season MVPs, Nikola Jokic compensated by winning the 2023 NBA Championship and Finals MVP Award instead. It was the Nuggets' first championship in franchise history. <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-basketball-news-hours-before-game-two-tip-off-nikola-jokic-eyes-a-thirty-nine-year-long-nba-finals-record-last-held-by-magic-johnson/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">He became only the second player to post a triple-double on his NBA Finals debut</a>. Jokic is also leading the MVP race for the 2023-24 season while breaking into the top 4 on the list of career NBA triple-doubles.

[caption id="attachment_2557419" align="aligncenter" width="7008"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2557419" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024-01-14T233146Z_502467131_MT1USATODAY22293363_RTRMADP_3_NBA-INDIANA-PACERS-AT-DENVER-NUGGETS.jpg" alt="Nikola JokiÄ‡" width="7008" height="4672" /> Jan 14, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before the game against the Indiana Pacers at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

The 6x All-Star has played in 645 regular season NBA games. In 2021, he dropped a regular season high of 50 points against the Sacramento Kings. He has also tallied regular-season highs of 16 assists and 27 rebounds.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse;width: 39.2857%;height: 72px">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 20%;text-align: center;height: 24px">Regular season points</td>
<td style="width: 19.2857%;text-align: center;height: 24px">13,421 (20.7 ppg)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 20%;height: 24px;text-align: center">Regular season rebounds</td>
<td style="width: 19.2857%;text-align: center;height: 24px">6,905 (10.7 rpg)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 20%;height: 24px;text-align: center">Regular season assists</td>
<td style="width: 19.2857%;text-align: center;height: 24px">4,425 (6.8 apg)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Nikola Jokic dropped his playoff high in Game 4 of the 2023 Western Conference Semifinals, scoring 53 points in a loss against the Phoenix Suns. He is also the only player in NBA history to have multiple games with 30+ points, 20+ rebounds, and 10+ assists in the postseason. Jokic has played in 68 playoff games.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse;width: 39.2857%;height: 72px">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 20%;height: 24px;text-align: center">Postseason points</td>
<td style="width: 19.2857%;height: 24px;text-align: center">1,869 (27.5 ppg)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 20%;height: 24px;text-align: center">Postseason rebounds</td>
<td style="width: 19.2857%;height: 24px;text-align: center">820 (12.1 rpg)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 20%;height: 24px;text-align: center">Postseason assists</td>
<td style="width: 19.2857%;height: 24px;text-align: center">496 (7.3 apg)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokicâ€™s Contracts </h2>
Upon his entry to the league, the second-rounder signed a 3-year $4.1 million contract. In 2018, the Denver Nuggets signed Nikola Jokic to a five-year contract extension worth $147 million. During the same, he would win back-to-back regular season MVP Awards and help the team to the Western Conference Finals. He then signed an impressive five-year $272 million contract extension in 2022, which was the most expensive deal at the time it was signed. The much-improved package is expected to earn him an average annual salary of $54 million until 2028, with the last year featuring a player option. In total, including his incentives, the 9-season NBA center has earned $198,124,795 through his contracts.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokicâ€™s Partnerships and Endorsements</h2>
Nikola Jokic has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Western Union, Somborac, Panini and 361 Degrees. Even though Jokic has been arguably the best player in the league winning two straight NBA MVP awards, he is yet to have his own signature shoe. Late in 2023, the Serbian star didn't extend his Nike contract and instead signed with Chinese shoe company 361 Degrees. He has also featured in recent ads for 'Hotels.com' alongside his teammate Peyton Watson and his former NBA Finals opponent, Jimmy Butler.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Investments</h2>
Nikola Jokic invested over $3 million in NFTs. However, the investment didn't pay dividends as their value has plummeted by over 70%. Apart from cryptocurrency, Jokic has also invested in real estate. The 2023 NBA Finals MVP purchased 3 homes for an estimated $12 million, choosing to lease out two of them.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokicâ€™s Records</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>First NBA player with at least 10 triple-doubles recorded for 7 straight seasons</li>
 	<li>Most triple-doubles in a single postseason</li>
 	<li>Third NBA player to record 500 points, 200 rebounds, and 150 assists in a single postseason (after Magic Johnson and LeBron James)</li>
 	<li>Third NBA player to record 40 points, 25+ rebounds, and 10 assists in a game (after Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain)</li>
 	<li>Fastest triple-double in an NBA game (14 minutes, 33 seconds)</li>
 	<li>Only NBA player to tally at least 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, and 500 assists in a single season</li>
 	<li>Most assists by a player in their NBA Finals debut (14)</li>
 	<li>Second player in NBA history to record a triple-double in their NBA Finals debut (after Jason Kidd)</li>
 	<li>Second player in NBA history to record 4 consecutive triple-doubles in the same postseason (after Wilt Chamberlain)</li>
 	<li>Most triple-doubles by a center in NBA history</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokic's Major Achievements and Awards</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>NBA champion (2023)</li>
 	<li>NBA Finals MVP (2023)</li>
 	<li>2Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2021, 2022)</li>
 	<li>6Ã— NBA All-Star (2019â€“2024)</li>
 	<li>3Ã— All-NBA First Team (2019, 2021, 2022)</li>
 	<li>2Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2020, 2023)</li>
 	<li>NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016)</li>
 	<li>3Ã— Serbian Player of the Year (2018, 2021, 2022)</li>
 	<li>ABA League MVP (2015)</li>
 	<li>ABA League Top Prospect (2015)</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokic's Charity and Foundation</h2>
Nikola Jokic is generous in giving back to the community. His latest act of philanthropy was reportedly for the LuBird's Light Foundation. In 2019, Jokic and Jamal Murray attended a charity ping pong event to raise funds for building accessible playgrounds through the LuBird Foundation. He also made a significant donation to a medical center in his hometown, Sombor to help fight against the coronavirus.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokicâ€™s Shoe Deal</h2>
Nike signed Nikola Jokic in 2015 but never created a signature line for the 2x NBA MVP. He wore different sneakers like the Hyperdunk, Zoom Rize and the Nike Air Zoom G.T. Jumps during his stint with Nike. However, in December 2023, <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-active-basketball-news-ditching-nike-nikola-jokic-follows-aaron-gordon-into-nine-hundred-ninety-million-worth-chinese-brand/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the 'Joker' signed a multi-year deal with Chinese footwear brand 361 Degrees</a>. The 21-year-old company has already begun work on Jokic's first signature shoe. In the meantime, the Denver Nuggets star has been taking to the court in the Big3 Future High.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokic's House</h2>
Nikola Jokic reportedly owns a $2.4 million mansion in Denver, Colorado. The Serbian purchased the property in 2019 after signing his lucrative contract extension in 2018.Â  In late 2021, Jokic also purchased a 12,271-square-foot mansion in Cherry Hills, Colorado for $4.5 million. The property includes a 12-seat home theater, a pool house, a gym, and guest apartments. The Joker has also been building a house across 5 plots of land in his native Sombor, Serbia. After signing in the NBA, Jokic also purchased his first expensive horse. By 2024, he owns over a dozen horses that are competing across Europe through Jokic's stable.
<h2 style="text-align: center">Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Rings</h2>
Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship in the 2022-23 season. In a 5 game series against the Miami Heat, the 'Joker' averaged 30.2 points, 14.0 rebounds and 7.2 assists to win his first and only NBA ring. He was also awarded the Finals MVP trophy for his historic performance. Jokic tallied at least a double-double in each of the 5 games and recorded 2 triple-doubles during his first NBA Finals series.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1792644" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/A0620962-731D-4E77-A9CC-B728533341DC.jpeg" alt="" />
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokic's Car Collection </h2>
Like a lot of popular athletes, Nikola Jokic also owns an impressive car collection. The NBA superstar reportedly has luxury cars such as the Lamborghini Aventador S, Porsche-Mansory Panamera 4S, GMC Yukon Denali, Lamborghini Urus, and the Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63 Brabus 800 SUV. Furthermore, he has also been seen driving a Lamborghini Huracan.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Nikola Jokic's Social Media Accounts</h2>
Nikola Jokic is not active on any social media.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Full Name</td>
<td>Nikola JokiÄ‡</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Popular Name</td>
<td>Nikola JokiÄ‡</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Date of Birth</td>
<td>19th February, 1995</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Birth Place</td>
<td>Sombor, Serbia, FR Yugoslavia</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Age</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Height</td>
<td>6 feet 11 inches</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>284 lb</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parents</td>
<td>Branislav Jokic (Father)
Nikolina Jokic (Mother)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Siblings</td>
<td>Strahinja Jokic (Brother)
Nemanja Jokic (Brother)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nationality</td>
<td>Serbian</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethnicity</td>
<td>Serbian</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Net Worth</td>
<td>$50 Million</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Salary</td>
<td>$47.6 Million</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Spouse</td>
<td>Natalija MaÄeÅ¡iÄ‡ (Wife)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Relationship/Marital Status</td>
<td>Married</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Children</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Profession</td>
<td>Basketball Player</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Team</td>
<td>Denver Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rings</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Nikola Jokic

Who is Nikola Jokic? 28-year-old Nikola Jokic is a Serbian big man who plays for the Denver Nuggets. The 41st pick in the 2014 Draft is a 2x NBA MVP and 2023 NBA Champion. The father of one is also a devout horse racer, owning over a dozen horses in his home country that compete in professional races. Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Early Life Nikola Jokic was born on February 19, 1995, in Sombor, Serbia. The &#8216;Joker&#8217; spent most of his early life in Serbia with his family. Nikola Jokic&#8217;s father is Branislav Jokic, who is an agricultural engineer. Details about Jokic&#8217;s mother are not public, so very little is known about her except that Nikola and his two older brothers were raised by their parents and their grandmother in a tiny apartment. The 2x NBA MVP started playing basketball with his brothers, Strahinja and Nemanja Jokic, at a very young age. While Strahinja played professional basketball in Europe, Nemanja played college basketball in the US. Nikola developed a love for the game of basketball from a very young age, playing with his older brothers. After impressing many playing youth basketball, Jokic started playing in the Serbian professional league in 2012. He graduated high school, but he did not attend college. Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Wife and Children Jokic has been in a long-term relationship with his high school sweetheart, Natalija Jokic. Natalija played volleyball for the Florida Seminoles in 2o13. When Nikola Jokic moved to Denver in 2015, she relocated to live with him. The two later tied the knot on October 24th, 2020, in Sombor, their hometown. The couple welcomed their daughter Ognjena Jokic, in September 2021. Jun 12, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver awards the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP Award to Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) after the Nuggets won the 2023 NBA Championship against the Miami Heat at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters The Jokics are a very closely knit and can be seen courtside during most home games. The 6x NBA All-Star is a family man and has multiple practices up his sleeve to drive home the importance of family. Notably, Jokic ties his wedding ring to his sneakers while playing and also has an adorable hand gesture for his daughter who is courtside which relates to one of her favorite songs. Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Net Worth 2024 Nikola Jokic reportedly has a net worth of around $50 million. The Serbian signed a massive $272 million contract extension with the Denver Nuggets in 2022. With this improved contract, Jokic will earn around $47 million for the current season. So far, the towering center has amassed over $190 million in NBA salary. He also reportedly earns around $750,000 per year from his endorsement deals with companies like Nike, Panini, and Western Union. Nikola Jokic&#8217;s Career Nikola Jokic initially started playing youth basketball with KK Vojvodina Srbijagas. As his performances improved, Jokic gained attention from some of the most popular teams in Serbia. Then in 2012, KK Mega Basket came calling and Jokic signed his first pro contract with the Belgrade-based team. However, he still mostly played for the junior team throughout the 2012-13 season to hone his skills. In the next season, Jokic received more game time from the senior team, grabbing the opportunity with both hands. In 2014, Nikola Jokic declared for the NBA draft. The Denver Nuggets famously selected the &#8216;Joker&#8217; as the 41st overall pick in the second round during a commercial break for &#8216;Taco Bell&#8217;. The 6&#8217;11&#8221; center then returned to KK Mega Basket to continue his development. After another successful year in the Serbian League where he won the Adriatic League MVP Award, Jokic joined the Nuggets to pursue his NBA career in 2015. Jokic&#8217;s versatility was evident right from the start in his rookie season. He averaged 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in his first season, playing 80 games and starting 55. The Nuggets&#8217; faith in the young star was also clear. Furthermore, his displays earned him a spot on the All-Rookie First Team. From there, Jokic progressed quickly, finishing his second year with 6 triple-doubles (4th highest that year) and a second place in the Most Improved Player race. The next season was when the &#8216;Joker&#8217; established himself as a premier threat, recording the fastest triple-double in NBA history. From 2019 onwards, Jokic has made the All-Star team for five straight years. He then became one of the best players in the league and won back-to-back NBA MVP honors in 2021 and 2022. Though he couldn&#8217;t win three consecutive regular-season MVPs, Nikola Jokic compensated by winning the 2023 NBA Championship and Finals MVP Award instead. It was the Nuggets&#8217; first championship in franchise history. He became only the second player to post a triple-double on his NBA Finals debut. Jokic is also leading the MVP race for the 2023-24 season while breaking into the top 4 on the list of career NBA triple-doubles. Jan 14, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before the game against the Indiana Pacers at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports The 6x All-Star has played in 645 regular season NBA games. In 2021, he dropped a regular season high of 50 points against the Sacramento Kings. He has also tallied regular-season highs of 16 assists and 27 rebounds.  Regular season points 13,421 (20.7 ppg)  Regular season rebounds 6,905 (10.7 rpg)  Regular season assists 4,425 (6.8 apg)  Nikola Jokic dropped his playoff high in Game 4 of the 2023 Western Conference Semifinals, scoring 53 points in a loss against the Phoenix Suns. He is also the only player in NBA history to have multiple games with 30+ points, 20+ rebounds, and 10+ assists in the postseason. Jokic has played in 68 playoff games.  Postseason points 1,869 (27.5 ppg)  Postseason rebounds 820 (12.1 rpg)  Postseason assists 496 (7.3 apg)  Nikola Jokicâ€™s Contracts Upon his entry to the league, the second-rounder signed a 3-year $4.1 million contract. In 2018, the Denver Nuggets signed Nikola Jokic to a five-year contract extension worth $147 million. During the same, he would win back-to-back regular season MVP Awards and help the team to the Western Conference Finals. He then signed an impressive five-year $272 million contract extension in 2022, which was the most expensive deal at the time it was signed. The much-improved package is expected to earn him an average annual salary of $54 million until 2028, with the last year featuring a player option. In total, including his incentives, the 9-season NBA center has earned $198,124,795 through his contracts. Nikola Jokicâ€™s Partnerships and Endorsements Nikola Jokic has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Western Union, Somborac, Panini and 361 Degrees. Even though Jokic has been arguably the best player in the league winning two straight NBA MVP awards, he is yet to have his own signature shoe. Late in 2023, the Serbian star didn&#8217;t extend his Nike contract and instead signed with Chinese shoe company 361 Degrees. He has also featured in recent ads for &#8216;Hotels.com&#8217; alongside his teammate Peyton Watson and his former NBA Finals opponent, Jimmy Butler. Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Investments Nikola Jokic invested over $3 million in NFTs. However, the investment didn&#8217;t pay dividends as their value has plummeted by over 70%. Apart from cryptocurrency, Jokic has also invested in real estate. The 2023 NBA Finals MVP purchased 3 homes for an estimated $12 million, choosing to lease out two of them. Nikola Jokicâ€™s Records First NBA player with at least 10 triple-doubles recorded for 7 straight seasons Most triple-doubles in a single postseason Third NBA player to record 500 points, 200 rebounds, and 150 assists in a single postseason (after Magic Johnson and LeBron James) Third NBA player to record 40 points, 25+ rebounds, and 10 assists in a game (after Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain) Fastest triple-double in an NBA game (14 minutes, 33 seconds) Only NBA player to tally at least 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, and 500 assists in a single season Most assists by a player in their NBA Finals debut (14) Second player in NBA history to record a triple-double in their NBA Finals debut (after Jason Kidd) Second player in NBA history to record 4 consecutive triple-doubles in the same postseason (after Wilt Chamberlain) Most triple-doubles by a center in NBA history Nikola Jokic&#8217;s Major Achievements and Awards NBA champion (2023) NBA Finals MVP (2023) 2Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2021, 2022) 6Ã— NBA All-Star (2019â€“2024) 3Ã— All-NBA First Team (2019, 2021, 2022) 2Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2020, 2023) NBA All-Rookie First Team (2016) 3Ã— Serbian Player of the Year (2018, 2021, 2022) ABA League MVP (2015) ABA League Top Prospect (2015) Nikola Jokic&#8217;s Charity and Foundation Nikola Jokic is generous in giving back to the community. His latest act of philanthropy was reportedly for the LuBird&#8217;s Light Foundation. In 2019, Jokic and Jamal Murray attended a charity ping pong event to raise funds for building accessible playgrounds through the LuBird Foundation. He also made a significant donation to a medical center in his hometown, Sombor to help fight against the coronavirus. Nikola Jokicâ€™s Shoe Deal Nike signed Nikola Jokic in 2015 but never created a signature line for the 2x NBA MVP. He wore different sneakers like the Hyperdunk, Zoom Rize and the Nike Air Zoom G.T. Jumps during his stint with Nike. However, in December 2023, the &#8216;Joker&#8217; signed a multi-year deal with Chinese footwear brand 361 Degrees. The 21-year-old company has already begun work on Jokic&#8217;s first signature shoe. In the meantime, the Denver Nuggets star has been taking to the court in the Big3 Future High. Nikola Jokic&#8217;s House Nikola Jokic reportedly owns a $2.4 million mansion in Denver, Colorado. The Serbian purchased the property in 2019 after signing his lucrative contract extension in 2018.Â  In late 2021, Jokic also purchased a 12,271-square-foot mansion in Cherry Hills, Colorado for $4.5 million. The property includes a 12-seat home theater, a pool house, a gym, and guest apartments. The Joker has also been building a house across 5 plots of land in his native Sombor, Serbia. After signing in the NBA, Jokic also purchased his first expensive horse. By 2024, he owns over a dozen horses that are competing across Europe through Jokic&#8217;s stable. Â Nikola Jokicâ€™s Rings Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship in the 2022-23 season. In a 5 game series against the Miami Heat, the &#8216;Joker&#8217; averaged 30.2 points, 14.0 rebounds and 7.2 assists to win his first and only NBA ring. He was also awarded the Finals MVP trophy for his historic performance. Jokic tallied at least a double-double in each of the 5 games and recorded 2 triple-doubles during his first NBA Finals series. Nikola Jokic&#8217;s Car Collection Like a lot of popular athletes, Nikola Jokic also owns an impressive car collection. The NBA superstar reportedly has luxury cars such as the Lamborghini Aventador S, Porsche-Mansory Panamera 4S, GMC Yukon Denali, Lamborghini Urus, and the Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63 Brabus 800 SUV. Furthermore, he has also been seen driving a Lamborghini Huracan. Nikola Jokic&#8217;s Social Media Accounts Nikola Jokic is not active on any social media.  Full Name Nikola JokiÄ‡  Popular Name Nikola JokiÄ‡  Date of Birth 19th February, 1995  Birth Place Sombor, Serbia, FR Yugoslavia  Age 28  Height 6 feet 11 inches  Weight 284 lb  Parents Branislav Jokic (Father) Nikolina Jokic (Mother)  Siblings Strahinja Jokic (Brother) Nemanja Jokic (Brother)  Nationality Serbian  Ethnicity Serbian  Net Worth $50 Million  Salary $47.6 Million  Spouse Natalija MaÄeÅ¡iÄ‡ (Wife)  Relationship/Marital Status Married  Children 1  Profession Basketball Player  Team Denver Nuggets  Rings 1