Denver Nuggets’ center Nikola Jokic has solidified his status as one of the NBA’s all-time greats by winning the league’s Most Valuable Player award for the third time.
With this achievement, Jokic joins an elite group of players, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, LeBron James, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Moses Malone, as one of the few to win the MVP title three or more times.
Expressing his gratitude, Jokic acknowledged the significance of the award, stating that it’s a moment he will cherish for a lifetime and a legacy he aims to leave behind.
The Serbian center has had another stellar season, averaging 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and nine assists per game, while also recording 25 triple-doubles. Notably, he became only the second player in NBA history to accumulate over 2,000 points, 900 rebounds, and 700 assists in a single regular season.
Despite his individual brilliance, Jokic’s focus remains on team success, as the Nuggets strive to overcome a 2-0 deficit against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semi-finals.
In other NBA action, Jalen Brunson showcased resilience and leadership for the New York Knicks in their Eastern Conference semi-final matchup against the Indiana Pacers. Despite suffering a foot injury in the first half, Brunson returned to the court in the third quarter and propelled his team to a remarkable comeback victory, scoring 24 points to secure a 2-0 series lead for the Knicks.