Nikola Jokic is poised to join Serbia’s national basketball team for the 2025 EuroBasket tournament, following his instrumental role in securing a bronze medal at the 2024 Olympics. Reports from Meridian indicate that Jokic is close to officially accepting the invitation extended by head coach Svetislav Pesic for a second consecutive summer of international competition.

Jokic’s Impact and Serbia’s Recent International Performance

If confirmed, this will mark the first time Jokic participates in back-to-back major summer international tournaments. At the Tokyo 2024 Olympics, Jokic averaged 18.8 points per game, while leading the tournament with 10.7 rebounds and 8.7 assists. His performance was key in Serbia’s victory over reigning world champion Germany to claim the bronze medal.

Jokic will be the centerpiece of a strong Serbian lineup, which also features notable players such as Los Angeles Clippers guard Bogdan Bogdanovic and former EuroLeague MVP Vasilije Micic. Despite recent struggles, Serbia remains a formidable contender on the international stage, having last won a gold medal at the 2022 World Championship. However, their last EuroBasket gold dates back to 2001.

In the 2022 EuroBasket, Serbia experienced an unexpected early elimination after falling to Italy in the Round of 16, underscoring the challenges the team faces in reclaiming top continental honors.

Serbia’s Group and Prospects at EuroBasket 2025

Serbia has been drawn into Group A of the 2025 EuroBasket, where they will compete against Turkey, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Portugal, and host nation Latvia. The top four teams from this group will proceed to the knockout stages, setting the stage for an intense battle for advancement.

The presence of Nikola Jokic promises to elevate Serbia’s chances significantly as they aim to improve upon past tournament performances and make a strong push toward the championship.