Nikola Jokic refuses to acknowledge long-standing nickname that resurfaces around Christmas | NBA News
Nikola Jokic kept the focus where he prefers it during the holiday stretch. As the Denver Nuggets prepared for another Christmas showdown, Jokic was asked about a nickname that reappears every December among fans. Well, Jokic did not lean into the celebration. He dismissed it quickly, staying true to the understated approach that has defined his career.The moment came during a busy stretch of games, with Denver navigating tight finishes and national attention. While fans continue to mark December with their own traditions tied to Jokic’s rise, the center shared that he is far more interested in basketball decisions than labels tied to his name.
Nikola Jokic shuts down his long-standing Christmas nickname
The nickname “Jokmas” has followed Jokic for years, tied to December 15, 2016, the date he permanently entered Denver’s starting lineup. Nuggets supporters still treat it as a franchise turning point, one that changed the team’s direction and elevated Jokic from a second-round curiosity to a cornerstone player. Around Christmas each season, the name resurfaces across social media and broadcasts.Jokic, however, showed little interest in embracing it. When the term was mentioned again this week, he brushed it aside. In a video shared by the NBA’s official handle showed that Jokic has never been a fan of the nickname, as he said, “NOT a fan of ‘Jokmas.’”In Denver’s recent road loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Jokic drew attention late for passing out of the post instead of taking the final shot himself. With seven seconds remaining and the Nuggets down one, he found Peyton Watson in the opposite corner. The shot rimmed out, sealing the loss, yet Jokic stood firmly behind the choice.“I think it’s the right play to do, and I would do it again,” Jokic said, according to Vinny Benedetto of the Denver Gazette.
Nikola Jokic and co. are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Christmas Day
The decision reflected Jokic’s long-standing philosophy. He has often prioritized the best look over personal scoring, even in moments when fans expect him to take control. That approach has earned praise and criticism, though Denver’s overall position suggests stability rather than concern.Despite the setback in Dallas, the Nuggets remain near the top of the Western Conference at 21-8. Their next game brings another spotlight moment, a Christmas night home matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, scheduled for a 10:30 pm ET tipoff. Also Read: Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson tease a holiday moment on a boat with their dog
