Nikola Jokic Questions Whether Athletes Should Be Role Models for Young Fans

Nikola Jokic believes family and friends have a greater influence on young people than professional athletes.

Nikola Jokic Questions Whether Athletes Should Be Role Models for Young Fans

Nikola Jokic (Image credits - The New York Times)

Nikola Jokic is one of the biggest names in the NBA today. Over the last few years, he has established himself as one of the best players in the league and has won a number of accolades and awards.

Drafted by the Denver Nuggets as a second-round pick in 2014, Jokic has three MVPs and has been named an All-Star eight times. He is only the third player in NBA history to average a triple-double in a season and only the second player to average a triple-double in multiple seasons.

After leading the Nuggets to their first and only championship in 2023, he became a fan favorite in the city. He broke several records during their championship run and was also named the Finals MVP.

With all the dominance and MVPs over the years, many look up to the Serbian as a role model. However, Nikola Jokic pushed back against it, as he does not see himself as one.

I don’t know if a public figure should really influence children. I think that role belongs to family and friends… I figured out it wasn’t cool to go out at 16 and get drunk on the street when I had to train. I don’t think I have that much influence over young people. People tell me, ‘they look up to you as an example!’ Well, they shouldn’t, just like I also didn’t look up to others either.

Nikola Jokic on Jao Mile podcast

Over the last five years, Nikola Jokic has been arguably the best player in the world. His performances on the court has seen his popularity grow exponentially. However, he has grown increasingly uncomfortable with all the fame.

Professional athletes are often regarded for their self-discipline and hard work; as a result, the public around the world idolizes them. But Jokic, who is well known for not mincing his words, does not see himself as a role model. He believes family and close friends are better role models than athletes.

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Fans react to Nikola Jokic refusing to see himself as a role model

Nikola Jokic is well known for living a quiet life off the court. He stays away from the public eye and prefers to keep his private life to himself. Another reason why Jokic said he does not see himself as a role model is that, just like any other professional athlete, Jokic has lost his temper on the court and that is something that he would not be proud of.

After his comments about not seeing himself as a role model, fans took to the internet to react.

His statements received mixed responses across social media. While some fans agreed that family should come first for kids, some argued that athletes like Jokic have a responsibility, as many such kids aspire to be like them one day.

Who defends Nikola Jokic the best?

Nikola Jokic is undoubtedly the most skilled center the NBA has ever seen. He may not be physically dominant like someone such as Shaquille O’Neal, but his offensive skill set is second to none. Many view him as “must-watch TV”.

Nikola Jokic being defended by Rudy Gobert
Nikola Jokic being defended by Rudy Gobert (Image credits – Yahoo Sports)

It is almost impossible to stop someone like Jokic. Many centers have tried it, but to no avail. Last season, Jokic averaged 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists in 65 appearances.

When asked which centers guard him the best, Jokic said:

Everyone. Zubac guards me really well, and so does Nurkic. I think Rudy Gobert is a great defender, even though I’ve historically played well against him. Jalen Duren, he’s undersized but tricky. Wendell Carter Jr. is also on the shorter side, and Myles Turner blocks a lot of shots. There’s no need to even talk about Wembanyama.

Nikola Jokic on Jao Mile podcast

Rudy Gobert did a fine job in containing Jokic in the playoffs last season. His defensive masterclass was the key factor as the Minnesota Timberwolves eliminated Jokic and the Nuggets in the first round last season. And Jokic has always heaped praise on Victor Wembanyama. But it also shows Nikola Jokic’s humility despite being one of the best players in the NBA.

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