It took a horse to humanize Nikola Jokic.
Playing basketball for the Nuggets provides purpose, but harness racing remains his crush.
Last Sunday drove this point home when Jokic celebrated his horse Demon Dell’Est’s victory in the Duu017eijanac event in Serbia by hustling to the winner’s circle and spraying champagne. Tears streaming down his cheeks, he hugged the animal and the driver before throwing his hands skyward in jubilation.
It couldn’t have been much different than his reaction when the Nuggets claimed the NBA title. He was composed while accepting the Finals MVP trophy, and sheepishly popped champagne before finally letting loose when he tossed Jamal Murray into a recovery pool.