Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets superstar, shocked many by nearly quitting the NBA despite being at the pinnacle of his career. This surprising revelation came from former teammate DeMarcus Cousins, who shared that Jokic seriously considered retirement even as he was about to secure a massive contract extension. The news raises questions about Jokic’s complex relationship with basketball, especially since he has often appeared more passionate about horse racing than the game itself.
Jokic’s Contract Decision Came Amid Reluctance in 2022
During the 2022 season, Jokic delivered one of the greatest individual performances in NBA history, earning his second straight MVP award. Despite these achievements, he was hesitant about committing long-term to the league. Cousins recounted their memorable locker room conversation, explaining how Jokic initially told him he might retire instead of signing the lucrative deal.
“When I was in Denver, our lockers were next to each other in the locker room, I don’t remember who had just signed an extension at the time, but I told him: ‘Your new contract is going to be insane!’ He told me: ‘Cuz, I might retire before that contract.’”
—DeMarcus Cousins
“I said: ‘You’re going to leave $300 million on the table? Are you crazy? Sign the contract and then get fat, become bad. Just don’t miss out on $300 million!’ Then he told me: ‘Cuz, I just want to go back to my hometown and chill with my horses.’ I told him: ‘Joke, those horses will be there. You’ll just buy more horses with $300 million.’”
—DeMarcus Cousins
Extension Leads to Historic Championship for Denver Nuggets
After his hesitation, Jokic agreed to a five-year, $276 million contract, a decision that proved pivotal for both him and the Nuggets franchise. While Cousins left the NBA soon after, Jokic emerged as the driving force behind Denver’s first-ever NBA championship. Despite still being the league’s top player, his interest in basketball does not seem to match his affection for his personal hobbies, contributing to uncertainty about how long he will continue playing.
Future Uncertain but Financial Security Guaranteed
Jokic’s near-retirement story highlights his unusual mindset in professional sports, where monetary incentives rarely fail to motivate players. His choice to stay ensured not just a remarkable legacy with an NBA title but also immense financial security. Fans and analysts alike remain unsure when Jokic will decide to step away from basketball, but it is clear he will do so as one of the wealthiest and most accomplished players in the history of the league.