Basketball legends are currently gathering in Ljubljana to celebrate the basketball career of Slovenian star Goran Dragic as he retires at ‘The Night of the Dragon’, an event that brought together some of the sport’s most iconic figures including Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash.
Amid the celebrations, the conversation inevitably turned to the future of European basketball, particularly the tantalising prospect of Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic teaming up in the NBA.
Asked about the possibility of Doncic and Jokic playing together, Nowitzki, a The Dallas Mavericks legend, did not hesitate to express his hopes.
“I hope it’s in Dallas,” Nowitzki told reporters, via EuroHoops.com“I don’t know if it will ever happen, but it’s obvious that they are two of the best players in the world. If not the best players in the world.”
Jedan od gostiju opproštajne utakmice Gorana Dragića bice et veliki Dirk Novicki, a vovo je bio njegov odgovor na pitanje da bi voleo de vidi Nikolu Jokića et Luku Dončića u estoj ekipi 🗣️☝🏻#nowitzki #jokic #doncic pic.twitter.com/xjzyfsRddr
— Meridian Sport Serbia (@meridiansportrs) August 23, 2024
Nowitzki highlighted the strong bond between the European stars, suggesting their camaraderie and rapport could translate into something special.
“They both have a great relationship, they respect each other and they really like each other,” Nowitzki said. “They spend time together. I’m not sure, but of course we want Luka to stay in Dallas as long as possible.”
Regardless of whether Doncic or Jokic ever play together in the NBA, Nowitzki would appreciate seeing Doncic play his entire career with the Mavericks.
“I hope he finishes his career there, but I love Jokic’s game, the way he plays with passion, and the skill level as a big guy is unbelievable. They’re both unbelievable players.”
Mavericks’ Luka Doncic on European stars who could become the face of the NBA:
“Obviously Giannis and Jokic are way ahead, you know, they’re two-time MVPs…” pic.twitter.com/99E7vLVF8M
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) February 19, 2023
During the NBA All-Star Weekend media festivities, Jokic was asked about a potential future partnership with Doncic. He admitted it was possible but that he didn’t want to leave Denver.
“I don’t know,” Jokic replied in a translated response in February. “It’s possible. I don’t want to leave Denver. I like it here and it’s a great organization. But if Luka gets upset in Dallas, he can come.”
Given Jokic’s success with the Nuggets, including an NBA championship, it’s hard to imagine him leaving Denver anytime soon, if ever.
Nikola Jokic made unprecedented history at the Paris 2024 Olympics
Kevin Durant Reveals NBA Players’ Views on Nikola Jokic
Russell Westbrook reacts after being snubbed from viral NBA list
