Skip to main content
SI

Nikola Jokic Had Perfectly On-Brand Response to Turning 30 Years Old

A very relatable answer from The Joker.
Michael Kadlick|
Jokic notched three NBA MVP awards before turning 30.
Jokic notched three NBA MVP awards before turning 30. | Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

In this story:

Denver Nuggets

Despite being a three-time NBA MVP, a seven-time All-Star, a four-time All-NBA first-teamer, and an NBA champion—Nikola Jokic is just like all of us.

The 6'11" all-world center from Serbia turned 30 years old on Wednesday and, despite being gleefully sung to by his teammates, didn't sound thrilled about the milestone when asked what he going to do to celebrate.

"Nothing," Jokic responded with a serious face. "I don't like my birthday."

"Why not?" followed up a reporter.

"I'm getting older."

Relatable.

Despite entering his third decade of life, Jokic is putting together a career season in 2024-25. He's averaging a triple-double (29.8 ppg, 12.6 rpg, and 10.2 apg) through 55 games and has Denver at 36-19 through the All-Star break.

The Nuggets return to the court on Thursday night at 9:00 pm. EST as they're set to take on the Charlotte Hornets from Denver's Ball Arena.

More of the Latest Around the NBA

Add us as a preferred source on Google
Published | Modified
Mike Kadlick
MICHAEL KADLICK

Mike Kadlick is an NFL writer for Sports Illustrated. He’s also a New England Patriots reporter for CLNS Media, where he hosts the Patriots Daily podcast and covers the beat from Gillette Stadium. Before joining SI, Kadlick worked at WEEI sports radio in Boston. He holds a master’s degree in public relations from Boston University. When Kadlick’s not covering football, he can be found running, spending time with his wife and dog, and enjoying all things pizza.

Home/NBA