Nearly four years after their on-court altercation, Markieff Morris continues to insist that Nikola Jokic was responsible for the controversial incident that led to his injuries. The tension between Morris and Jokic has persisted ever since the clash took place during an NBA game, fueling a deep feud centered around what Morris claims was a deliberate and unfair move by Jokic.
Details of Morris’s Allegations During The Big Podcast
During an appearance on Shaquille O’Neal’s The Big Podcast, the Morris twins addressed their feud with the Jokic family. In the discussion, Shaq questioned Markieff Morris about whether he considered Jokic’s action a ‘cheap shot’ given that Jokic struck him while his back was turned. Morris responded firmly, stating that what happened was not a normal basketball play.
“That’s a cheap shot,” Morris said.
“I did a basketball play. If you see that angle, I put my hand up. I let it known I’m coming towards you. I fouled him. It’s like a hard foul in the game. He hit me from behind. I think it’s a cheap shot. I’m physically walking away. I’m not even in the mode of knowing you’re about to hit me.”
—Markieff Morris
Morris emphasized that his action was a standard, hard foul, unlike the hit he received from Jokic, which he described as coming unexpectedly from behind. This characterization underscores the bitterness and distrust that still linger over the event years later.
The Surrounding Reactions and Consequences of the Incident
Shaq appeared skeptical of Morris’s claim, reminding him that the initial contact by Morris might have provoked Jokic’s reaction. However, the severity of the response from Jokic seemed disproportionate to many observers. The incident resulted in Morris missing much of the 2021-22 season due to injury, intensifying the animosity between the two families.
Aside from physical consequences, the clash triggered a bitter exchange of words between the Morris brothers and the Jokic brothers, deepening the rivalry beyond the basketball court.
Lasting Effects and Future Prospects for Resolution
Despite the passing years, Markieff Morris has yet to move past his grievances concerning this episode. The injury and surrounding controversy have left a mark on his career and personal outlook. Nikola Jokic, on the other hand, is unlikely to offer an apology, particularly as Morris continues to place all blame on him for the confrontation. This ongoing disagreement keeps the feud alive, suggesting that reconciliation remains distant.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much money is Nikola Jokic?
A. The player, drafted in 2014, spent three years with the Denver Nuggets. In 2018, he signed a five-year contract extension for up to $147 million. Later, in 2022, he secured a new five-year supermax deal valued at $264 million.