Michael Porter Jr. recently shared fascinating insights about his superstar teammate Nikola Jokic on the Curious Mike podcast with Aaron Gordon, providing light on the Serbian player’s development as a basketball player.
Porter Jr. revealed that Jokic—a two-time MVP—did not take the game seriously at first, but that changed once he won the coveted MVP award.
Porter Jr. emphasized Jokic’s distinct improvement in his play when talking about his development in the NBA. He did, however, also highlight the Serbian star’s more carefree side, highlighting his easygoing manner despite winning back-to-back MVP awards and a recent title.
“Jokic wins MVP back-to-back. How has he improved this year, considering that we recently won a championship? You return to Serbia. I told him as we were speaking, “Brother, I was drinking six beers a day.” Porter Jr. clarified on the Curious Mike podcast that “he probably didn’t touch a basketball.”
Porter Jr. revealed Jokic’s unusual way of life and regimen for taking care of his physique, which deviate from the customs of professional basketball players. The current Finals MVP isn’t just interested in winning basketball; he also likes to travel back to Serbia to spend time with friends and horses. He doesn’t appear to care about the title parade in Denver.
What is Denver’s take on Victor Wembanyama?
The topic of discussion moved from Jokic’s off-court experiences to the NBA’s emerging talent. Jokic praised rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama after Denver defeated the San Antonio Spurs 131-120, expressing gratitude for the young player’s contribution to the game.
Jokic praised the 19-year-old Wembanyama’s unwavering work ethic and commitment to progress, calling the 19-year-old “era-defining” and projecting a revolutionary impact.
“He will completely alter the course of the game. “For all the guys, just enjoy and watch the show and let the guy change the game; he’s already on the right path,” he continued.
“He’s not growing weary or afraid. He’s playing hard and doesn’t take anything for granted; he wants to be good.”
In his first NBA season, Wembanyama—often regarded as the most important draft prospect since LeBron James in 2003—is putting up a good fight to win Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. In his remarks, Jokic shows that he is a seasoned player who understands the bright future ahead of a young player who is expected to make a significant contribution to the league.