Nikola Jokic, one of the premier superstars in the NBA, seems to harbor ambivalence about his celebrity status.
Despite being crowned the NBA Finals MVP and securing his first championship title, Jokic garnered attention for his lack of enthusiasm about the championship parade.
Despite his towering 7-foot frame, Jokic strives to maintain a modest profile. However, this proves challenging given his prominent status as one of the NBA’s leading figures.
Everywhere he goes, the two-time NBA MVP garners attention, but he reveals that fame isn’t as enjoyable as it may seem.
“Being famous, it’s a mixed bag. Some people enjoy it, some don’t. When I retire, I hope to live a more private life. I want my children, or future children, to remember me primarily as a father. That’s my ultimate goal,” Jokic shared on “Curious Mike,” a podcast hosted by his teammate, Michael Porter Jr.
“I’m not particularly fond of this lifestyle because, in the end, we’re just basketball players. We excel at what we do, but the media attention that comes with it can be overwhelming. Of course, our popularity and the media play a significant role in our careers and earnings,” he added.
Mikal Bridges of the Nets reveals that he has indulged in Chipotle every day for a decade, describing it as “too good to pass up.”
He expresses his dismay at the constant intrusion of people trying to capture him on their phones when he’s out in public. Bridges finds this behavior disrespectful, emphasizing that he’s not seeking attention; he’s simply being himself.
Additionally, Jokic shares another significant aspiration: to live without a cell phone. He envisions a life where he can fully immerse himself in the present moment and enjoy ordinary activities without the pressure of being constantly recorded or monitored. He dreams of having the freedom to socialize with friends, spend quality time with his family, or engage in leisure activities like horseback riding without attracting undue attention.
Jokic’s $276 million contract is the most lucrative ever in the NBA.