Nikola Jokic and the continuing global shift in the NBA

Hey there, fellow Hive enthusiasts! Welcome to my first blog post, I'm both tense and excited! Basketball is my passion, and I love watching NBA games, the FIBA World Cup, etc. so my blogs in this community revolve around these topics.

Let's kick things off with a bang! On November 17, Nikola Jokic once again showcased his unparalleled skills on the court, recording yet another astounding triple-double. His performance of 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 11 assists marked his 5th triple-double of the 2023-24 season (more than anybody else in the young season) and the 124th in his illustrious career. This remarkable display of versatility continues to show why Jokic is considered probably the best player in the NBA today. Hailing from Sombor, Serbia, the two-time MVP continues to exhibit the kind of performance that cements his place as a frontrunner for another MVP title, even if we are only in the early stages of the season. The NBA has evolved into a skill-driven spectacle thanks to Jokic and the influx of international players. What was once a more predominantly physical game in the era of an all-American NBA has now transformed into a showcase of finesse, precision, and global talent. Foreign-born players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Dončić, and Joel Embiid have risen to become marquee names, redefining the league's elite. On the opening night of the 2023-2024 season, there was a record-breaking 125 international players from 40 countries across 6 continents - the NBA is now a mix of talent from everywhere, with no limits. It's all about a player's amazing skills, no matter where they come from on the map.

But back again to Jokic. This man Jokic brings a refreshing change from the more outspoken, chest-beating style of players such as LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. It's not about detracting from their greatness; they're undoubtedly legends in the game. What stands out to me is Jokic's embodiment of a different type of player—his soft-spokenness, even shyness. One who not only excels in basketball but also finds joy in pursuits beyond the court, like his passion for horseracing. He maintains a competitive edge during games while leading a grounded, understated life off the court.

Jokic didn't follow the usual path to NBA stardom. He wasn't a big-name prospect during his draft, but his talent, smarts, and humble attitude made him the Denver Nuggets' main guy. His style of play stands out—it's smart, graceful, and amazing at setting up plays. Even as a big man, his passing skills are compared to those of a point guard!

And Jokic isn't alone in this shift. The NBA is filled with talent from all over the world now. From rising European stars like Dončić to dominant players like Antetokounmpo and Embiid from different backgrounds, the league's getting more international.

This change isn't just about basketball; it's about recognizing talent without borders. The NBA's reaching more places, too, making basketball a universal language. It's an exciting chapter in NBA history, and Jokic is at the heart of it.

Image from Pinterest https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/978829300246136331/