When the Denver Nuggets traded Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets earlier this offseason, it marked the end of a six-year partnership with Nikola Jokic that forged one of the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA’s most potent offensive tandems. Instead of a sentimental farewell, Jokic’s brief and blunt goodbye message to Porter quickly became an internet sensation, showcasing his dry and brutally honest sense of humor.
Porter shared the story during a conversation on the Glory Daze podcast with Johnny Manziel, explaining how his former teammates reacted to the trade news.
Jokic’s Unfiltered Farewell to Porter
Porter described the reaction from his Nuggets teammates, emphasizing Jokic’s strikingly minimalistic message. While players like Jamal and Aaron sent heartfelt group texts, Jokic’s words consisted only of a concise instruction and a sharp piece of advice. Porter recalled Jokic’s message:
“It was tough saying goodbye to my teammates, especially Jamal and Aaron, the guys that have been there for a long time. They just all kind of texted in the group chat. And the only thing Nikola said was, ‘Wrap it up out there in NYC.’”
—Michael Porter Jr.
“And he said, ‘Make sure you wear a condom out there.’ That’s all he said. That was his message. That was his goodbye to me. Those are my guys. Those have been my family. But it’s the nature of the sport, and we’re going to stay in touch.”
—Michael Porter Jr.
The exchange spread rapidly online, resonating with fans who recognized Jokic’s characteristic humor. Porter and Jokic’s rapport had been forged during their entire NBA careers in Denver, where they combined to win a championship in 2023 and posed a continuous threat in the Western Conference.
Understanding the Unique Bond Between Jokic and Porter
This farewell text reveals the singular nature of their connection. Jokic is known for keeping his personal life private and avoiding public displays of emotion regarding teammates. His rare words, therefore, carry a distinct weight, reflecting trust and long-standing camaraderie.
For Porter, Jokic’s succinct and sharp message was less about sentimentality and more about brotherly humor shaped by shared experiences. This kind of playful straightforwardness underscores the depth of their relationship despite the tough, business-driven realities of professional basketball.
Porter’s Challenges and Public Scrutiny Since the Trade
Jokic’s parting words came at a moment when Porter Jr. was navigating significant attention off the court. Following the trade to Brooklyn, Porter drew widespread social media reaction after appearing with a transgender model in Taiwan.
Further viral moments included a video of Porter handing cash to a homeless man in New York City, only for the individual to reject the gesture. Porter’s candidness has extended to his personal YouTube channel, where he discussed his struggles and lifestyle choices.
In conversations, Porter has admitted to women being a vice and has contrasted himself with his younger brother, Jontay Porter, who faced a lifetime NBA ban. He also warned that betting scandals could worsen in the league amid ongoing investigations into players like Malik Beasley and Terry Rozier.
Some of Porter’s more controversial remarks, such as refusing to date anyone who has previously been involved with another NBA player, and sharing clips of Andrew Tate on dates to “test” women, have sparked online debate and criticism.
The Broader Impact of Jokic’s Farewell and Porter’s Transition
Jokic’s message, though delivered with his typical deadpan humor, serves as a nuanced farewell combining realism, care, and a lighthearted warning about life in one of sports’ most challenging markets, New York City. It highlights both the personal and professional transitions Porter now faces after his move.
As Porter adjusts to the Brooklyn Nets and handles increased public scrutiny, the connection with Jokic remains a reminder of the support system he leaves behind. Their relationship and Jokic’s unique farewell emphasize the blend of humor and honesty that defines their on-court and off-court interactions.