SALT LAKE CITY – Center Jusuf Nurkic spoke publicly for the first time as a member of the Utah Jazz during a Thursday press conference, shortly after being traded from the Charlotte Hornets. The trade, which took place on Sunday, involved Utah sending guard Collin Sexton and a second-round draft pick to Charlotte in exchange for Nurkic. This move marks a significant change for Nurkic as he begins his new chapter with the Jazz.
The Jusuf Nurkic Utah Jazz trade surprised many in the basketball community, as few expected the Hornets to be involved in a deal with Utah. Nurkic revealed that he learned about the trade unexpectedly while watching a movie with his wife. Despite the surprise, he expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to join Utah and praised the organization.
Adjusting Mindset and Embracing a Fresh Start in Utah
Nurkic acknowledged the need to rethink his perceptions about Utah, having played many games there over his 11-year <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA career. Although familiar with the state from past visits, he emphasized that living and playing for the Jazz required starting anew and reshaping his understanding of the community and team culture. He described Utah as having a welcoming, family-like atmosphere that mixes elements reminiscent of Portland and Phoenix.
“It was funny the way it happened, I was with my wife at the movie theater, and I got a phone call. You never know what’s going to happen in the NBA. But, I was (told) it was Utah, and I was really excited. I’m looking forward to (playing for) a great organization.”
— Jusuf Nurkic, Utah Jazz Center
“It’s always tough to play in (Utah). Knowing what I know about Utah in 11 years in the NBA, I feel like I had to delete it. What I’ve seen (over the past few days) it’s a super nice state. Reminds me of Portland and Phoenix, kind of mixed. It’s cool to be in a family-style environment with a great culture.”
— Jusuf Nurkic, Utah Jazz Center
Uncertain Role on the Team as He Settles In
Regarding his position with the Jazz, Nurkic admitted that the details are still being worked out. With young center Walker Kessler on the roster, expectations suggest Nurkic may serve as a backup center, but nothing is definite given the team’s developing lineup. Nurkic emphasized patience as he acclimates to the new environment and interacts with teammates and coaches.
“I’ve talked to everyone, but it’s too early, I don’t think the role and minutes and all of those things come at this point. I just got here yesterday. I’m sure there will be plenty of talk for that, but I’m just adjusting to the timezone now.”
— Jusuf Nurkic, Utah Jazz Center
The coming weeks will give fans a chance to see Nurkic in action during the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, followed by the 2025–26 preseason starting in early October. These events will offer insight into how Nurkic fits within the team dynamic and what impact he may have in upcoming seasons.
The Broader Context of Utah’s Roster Moves
The trade involving Nurkic and Sexton is part of the Utah Jazz’s broader strategy to reshape a roster shedding some veteran players while emphasizing development. With Collin Sexton departing and promising young talents like Walker Kessler and Isaiah Collier rising, the Jazz aim to balance experience with youth as they rebuild.
As Utah continues to evolve, the addition of a veteran big man like Nurkic adds depth and leadership to a team in transition. His presence could stabilize the frontcourt and influence younger players adapting to the NBA’s demands. The organization and fans alike will be watching closely to see how this trade influences the team’s trajectory.