At this time, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets is without doubt one of the most significant gamers within the league, a future Corridor of Famer, and arguably the very best athlete within the NBA.
However there was a time when he was toying with the idea of hanging up his jersey for good.
Based on DeMarcus Cousins, by way of Basketball Perpetually, Jokic considered retiring from the league so he may go residence and concentrate on different endeavors.
“Once I was in Denver, our lockers had been subsequent to one another within the locker room. I don’t bear in mind who had simply signed an extension on the time, however I advised him: ‘Your new contract goes to be insane!’ He advised me: ‘Cuz, I would retire earlier than that contract.’ I stated: ‘You’re going to go away $300 million on the desk? Are you loopy? Signal the contract after which get fats, turn into dangerous. Simply don’t miss out on $300 million!’ Then he advised me: ‘Cuz, I simply wish to return to my hometown and chill with my horses.’ I advised him: ‘Joke, these horses can be there. You’ll simply purchase extra horses with $300 million,’” Cousins stated.
DeMarcus Cousins stated Nikola Jokić needed to retire in 2022 earlier than he signed his superman contract with the Nuggets
“Once I was in Denver, our lockers had been subsequent to one another within the locker room. I don’t bear in mind who had simply signed an extension on the time, however I advised him:… pic.twitter.com/lYmyPPP3nN
— Basketball Perpetually (@bballforever_) August 1, 2025
Clearly, that didn’t occur, which is nothing however excellent news for the Nuggets.
As an alternative, Jokic signed an enormous contract with the Nuggets, helped them win a championship, and continued his dominance amongst all different gamers within the affiliation.
He has made no secret of his want to spend extra time in his residence nation of Serbia.
He likes to be along with his household, racing horses, and having fun with a slower tempo.
On the similar time, he additionally needs to see his crew succeed and is clearly dedicated to the Nuggets, even when he isn’t very animated about his love of enjoying basketball.
Cousins knew how a lot cash Jokic may make by staying within the league, and he inspired him to remain.
Fortunately, he did, which has helped cement his place in league historical past and helped his crew obtain newfound ranges of success.
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