Nikola Jokic, the Serbian MVP and leader of the Denver Nuggets clinched his first-ever NBA championship by defeating the Miami Heat. Game 5 witnessed Jokic’s stellar contribution of 28 points, 16 rebounds, and four assists, reaffirming his standout form. Despite achieving this success, Jokic’s equestrian side surfaced in a captivating moment during the post-game interview.

During the interview, he expressed his eagerness to return to his beloved hometown, Sombor. Fueling this longing is his unwavering love for horses, prompting him to pay a visit to his stable. Who would have thought that a champion’s heart would yearn for the simplicity of home and the thrill of racing?

Denver Nuggets’ Jokic contemplates parade attendance amid horse racing

On Thursday, the city of Denver will witness a grand parade celebrating the Denver Nuggets’ historic NBA championship victory. However, uncertainty surrounds the attendance of their star player, Nikola Jokic. In a recent interview tweeted by NBA TV on June 13, the newly crowned NBA Finals MVP revealed his hesitation about joining the championship parade.

Jokic’s offseason plans hold a special place for horse racing, adding a twist to his decision. During his appearance on NBA TV’s postgame coverage, Jokic disclosed his eagerness to return home swiftly. He humorously stated, “On Sundays, I have my horse racing. I don’t know how we’ll arrive. Thursday, parade. Friday, maybe.” 

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When asked about reaching Sombor, Serbia, for his horse race on Sunday, Jokic playfully contemplated seeking assistance from team president Josh Kroenke. He said, “I’m gonna ask Josh to give me a plane ride. I’m putting him under pressure. I don’t feel bad about it.” The tweet was also shared by Kentucky Derby’s official Twitter account.

Nevertheless, Jokic’s affinity for animals traces back to his childhood, when his father introduced him to the world of racing, igniting a lifelong fascination.

Jokic’s lifelong love for horses shaped his journey

Nikola Jokic’s love for horses has been a lifelong passion. He once expressed to The Athletic in 2020, saying, “I just fell in love with the horses.” He purchased his first racehorse, Dream Catcher, in 2016 and expanded his stable over the years. Reportedly, Jokic now owns “more than half a dozen” horses. He finds peace in their presence, stating, “You get to see when they work out that they are basically like us. They are athletes, sprinters. They are magnificent creatures.”

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Jokic’s passion for horse racing goes beyond merely owning horses. Despite his 6-foot-11, 284-pound frame, Jokic remains deeply involved in the training of racehorses. He shared with People’s magazine, “I just enjoy being around them and seeing their different characteristics.” Jokic’s childhood aspirations to become a horseman were tempered by his father, Branislav. He advised the MVP player to focus on basketball first, assuring him that the equestrian world could wait. Looks like his father, foreshadowed it all quite well. 

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