Nikola Jokic reveals how his career could have swung to Barcelona / News - Basketnews.com

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Nikola Jokic sat down with TV Arena Sport for a New Year's interview. The Serbian ball magician talked about the most important award, Coca-Cola, and the interest of FC Barcelona.

Points this season

49%84,6Points made:84,6Accuracy:48,8%Place in standings:1Record max:111Record min:68Best scorer:Nikola MiroticTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

The 26-year old joined the Denver Nuggets from the basketball prospects-generator KK Mega Basket in 2015 and last season he became the lowest NBA draft pick to win the regular-season MVP award, averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.3 steals over 72 games.

"I don't attach too much importance to that recognition, but when I realize, who won the MVP award before me, then I wake up. These are the players, who will be remembered for a long time, and it is a great honor to be in that company," the big man spoke.

Jokic admitted that playing for the national team is a special pleasure for him and that the silver medal from the Rio Olympics (2016) is his favorite award.

"My biggest award in basketball was a silver medal at the Olympic Games in Rio," Nikola Jokic said.

Though, he also added: "Oh, yes, and that MVP award... However, the Olympic Games are something more remarkable. That togetherness is amazing."

The Serbian superstar also had to change his diet to become who he is now.

"I had to transform my habits. I used to drink two or three liters of Coca-Cola every day and I had my last can on the flight to the United States.

The first week in practice was tough. All my teammates were more physical and athletic, they could slam-dunk any way you like and I kind of wanted to go home," Jokic claimed.

"I am now in my seventh NBA season, having experienced the 'garbage time' before I broke into the starting five," three-time NBA All-Star told.

Moreover, Nikola remembered his arrival in the NBA, as well as the fact that he almost ended up in Barcelona instead of Denver.

"Barcelona's representatives turned up at our home game against Cedevita to offer me a move but they put it away, after my poor performance. They wanted a little more from me. I remember that at the half-time of that game, coach Dejan Milojevic said to me: 'Nikola, who are you?'

Nevertheless, it turned out to be a good route – the Nuggets came and the rest is history," the reigning MVP finished.

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