Nikola Jokic, the cornerstone of the Denver Nuggets, injected some humor into the team’s serious quest to defend their NBA title in 2024. During a recent media interaction, the affable two-time NBA MVP shared a hilarious reason behind the Nuggets’ drive to secure another championship.
Jokic, known for his on-court prowess and off-court wit, disclosed that one of the motivating factors for the team was the prospect of revisiting the exuberant celebrations they enjoyed in Las Vegas after clinching the championship last season. In his characteristic deadpan style, he quipped, “We want to go to Las Vegas again to party, so that’s why we want to win a championship again.”
The Nuggets’ victory lap following their historic triumph was marked by memorable moments, including playful exchanges with coach Michael Malone and unforgettable revelry with teammates like Aaron Gordon and Bruce Brown.
As they prepare to navigate the playoffs, the Nuggets find themselves facing familiar foes, the Los Angeles Lakers, in the opening round. Despite their recent dominance over the Lakers, having won their last seven encounters, including playoff matchups, Jokic remains wary of underestimating their opponents’ competitiveness.
"We want to go to Las Vegas again to party. So that's why we want to win a championship again."
Nikola Jokic on the difference between this year and last year's NBA title run 😂
(via @TomerAzarly) pic.twitter.com/XqTi76XJnD
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 5, 2024
Recalling the challenges of sweeping the Lakers in the previous season, Jokic emphasized the unpredictable nature of the upcoming series. “It wasn’t easy sweeping them last year,” he noted, adding, “And this time, there’s no favorite. It can go both ways.”
Despite securing the second seed in the regular season, the Nuggets face a stern test against the Lakers. Tied with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the standings, tiebreakers favored the Thunder, highlighting the fierce competition in the Western Conference.
Amidst the intensity of playoff preparations, Jokic’s lighthearted humor provides a welcome respite. With their eyes set on both on-court triumphs and a return to the festive atmosphere of Las Vegas, the Nuggets are determined to turn their championship aspirations into reality once again.
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