Nuggets' Jokic Compares Pregame Mindset to Boxing Legend Tyson

Denver center Nikola Jokic says he feels self-critical before games, similar to how Mike Tyson was "afraid of his opponent" before fights.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP, has compared his pregame mindset to that of legendary heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson. Jokic said that like Tyson, he feels self-critical and afraid of his opponent before games, but once he steps on the court, he is in his element. This season, Jokic is averaging 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game, and is ranked second on the NBA's MVP Ladder.

Why it matters

Jokic's candid comparison of his pregame mindset to Tyson's reveals the mental challenges even the greatest athletes face, despite their dominance on the court or in the ring. This insight into Jokic's psyche provides a unique window into the mindset of one of the NBA's all-time greats.

The details

In a recent interview, Jokic said that like Tyson, who was "afraid of his opponent before the fight," he also experiences self-criticism and fear before games. However, Jokic said that once he steps on the court, he feels "very comfortable" and "in his element." This season, Jokic is putting up MVP-caliber numbers, averaging 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game.

  • Jokic made the comparison in a recent interview with X&O's Chat.

The players

Nikola Jokic

A three-time NBA MVP and center for the Denver Nuggets, known for his dominant and versatile play.

Mike Tyson

A legendary heavyweight boxer who was known for his fearsome pregame mindset and dominant in-ring performances.

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What they’re saying

“Mike Tyson, when he was entering the ring, was afraid of his opponent. As he was walking in. Once he got in the ring, it was different. Why should I think differently? If Mike Tyson was afraid of his opponent before the fight, and he's a lot tougher than me... I know it's a different sport. But like I said, I have that same fear or self-criticism when things start. When it's over, sure, I analyze, but during the game, I feel very comfortable. I'm in my element.”

— Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets Center (X&O's Chat)

What’s next

Jokic will look to help the Nuggets push up the standings during the final stretch of the regular season, and barring any injuries, he has a realistic chance to win his fourth MVP award.

The takeaway

Jokic's candid comparison of his pregame mindset to that of the legendary Mike Tyson provides a unique insight into the mental challenges even the greatest athletes face, despite their dominance on the court or in the ring. This revelation humanizes Jokic and shows that even the NBA's elite can experience self-doubt and fear before competition, but are able to channel that energy into dominant performances once the game begins.