‘No one could guard him’: Nikola Jokic names surprising NBA legend as his favorite player growing up

Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic has already established himself as one of the greatest players and centers in National Basketball Association (NBA) history—all within just a decade.

A three-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), Jokic led the Nuggets to their first-ever league championship in the 2022–23 season and ranks third all-time in triple-doubles. The Serbian center is also a seven-time NBA All-Star, among numerous other accolades.

Growing up in Serbia, Jokic naturally looked up to European NBA stars for inspiration. Their influence is evident in his style of play—emphasizing efficiency and intelligence over flashiness. However, in a recent snippet from the Nuggets’ “Road to Gold” documentary, the 30-year-old revealed a surprising favorite NBA player: Tracy McGrady.

Tracy T-Mac McGrady praises Nikola Jokic. Must watch.

“I would love to play with him. He’s a problem.”#MileHighBasketball pic.twitter.com/DP6aiFveCd

— n i k o l a e s t h e t i c (@nikolaesthetic) June 1, 2023

“When I was growing up, Peja Stojakovic and Vlade Divac were in the NBA. There’s also Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James. But I have to say Tim Duncan, Dirk Nowitzki… I love Tracy McGrady. I think he was a very talented player—he was unique, no one could guard him. I never mentioned him before, but let’s say Tracy McGrady,” Jokic said.

The NBA has long been home to some of the most talented basketball players in history, past and present. While Jokic has admired McGrady, like countless others, he has also expressed deep respect for NBA icon LeBron James. In earlier interviews, Jokic stated that James is the player every young athlete should aspire to emulate, citing his unmatched consistency and dedication.

“Nobody in the near future will do what he did. It’s a great accomplishment, of course. I think the guy didn’t have a prime—he’s been in his prime for 20 years. That’s not something many people can do in sports. If you want someone to look up to, he’s the guy. He’s always leading and playing at a high level, winning championships and MVPs.”

While Jokic was influenced by several legends during his youth, he has undeniably created his own legacy in the sport. At 30, he still has many years ahead to add to his growing list of accomplishments—and could very well be recognized as one of the greatest players, if not the greatest center in NBA history by the time he retires.

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