Nikola Jokic Reaffirms Loyalty to Denver Nuggets

Superstar center says he's found 'peace' and 'home' in the Mile High City.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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In a rare candid interview, Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic expressed his deep loyalty and love for the city that drafted him, saying he has 'found his life' in Denver and has no plans to play anywhere else during his career. The 31-year-old center, who is eligible for a contract extension this offseason, made it clear he intends to sign a long-term deal to remain with the Nuggets.

Why it matters

Jokic's comments put to rest any speculation about his future, reinforcing his commitment to the Nuggets organization and the city of Denver. As one of the NBA's elite players, Jokic's decision to stay in Denver long-term is a major win for the franchise and its fans.

The details

In a recent interview on a Serbian podcast, Jokic spoke candidly about his affinity for Denver, where he has played his entire 8-year NBA career. The two-time MVP said he has 'found peace' in the city, where his two children were born, and has no desire to play anywhere else. Jokic also expressed his intention to play as long as he can maintain an 'advantage' at the highest level.

  • Jokic's comments came during a recent appearance on the Serbian podcast X's and O's.

The players

Nikola Jokic

A 31-year-old Serbian-born center who has played his entire 8-year NBA career with the Denver Nuggets. He is a two-time NBA MVP and is considered one of the league's elite players.

Denver Nuggets

The NBA franchise that drafted Jokic in 2014 and has built a contending team around the superstar center.

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What they’re saying

“I wouldn't like to imagine that. I really found peace here. My two kids were born here. Everyone's here. Peace, home, I found my life here. And I like life here. I don't feel the need, I don't have the urge to. We built something here, together as a team.”

— Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Center (X's and O's Podcast)

“I want to play as long as I can. As long as I'm creating an advantage and I can play at the highest level.”

— Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Center (X's and O's Podcast)

What’s next

Jokic is eligible for a contract extension with the Nuggets this offseason, and league insiders widely expect him to sign a long-term deal to remain in Denver.

The takeaway

Jokic's unwavering loyalty to the Nuggets organization and the city of Denver is a testament to the strong bond he has built with the franchise and community. His commitment to staying in Denver long-term is a major win for the Nuggets as they look to build a championship contender around their superstar center.