Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets' star, recently experienced a heartfelt victory not on the basketball court, but at a horse race in Subotica, Serbia. This event highlighted his profound passion for horse racing, a love that traces back to his childhood.

Emotional Celebration

Upon his horse's victory, Jokic was seen overcome with emotion, shedding tears of joy. He quickly joined the celebration by jumping over a gate to embrace his horse and the driver. The celebration escalated as Jokic lifted the driver and sprayed champagne, not sparing the horse from the festive shower.

A Parallel to NBA Success

This scene was reminiscent of his reaction after winning the 2023 NBA Finals, where he famously stated, "The job is done. We can go home now." His recent comments about needing to return home after the race further emphasize his dedication to his equine interests.

A Lifelong Passion

Jokic's affinity for horses began at the age of 12 during a race day in his hometown. His commitment is so deep that he even received his 2022 MVP award while riding back to his horse stable. This offseason, he was spotted enjoying a race with teammate Aaron Gordon, further cementing his status as a true aficionado.

Future Aspirations

American horse jockey Tim Tetrick, who has connected with Jokic, predicts that the NBA MVP will transition into horse training post-retirement. This suggests that Jokic's involvement in horse racing is not just a pastime but a potential future career.

Jokic's recent season stats—averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists—underscore his dominance in basketball, but his recent horse racing victory reveals a different facet of his competitive spirit and personal joy.