It’s so calm! Jokic’s great talent is composure: every NBA game is like a street ball

On November 9, Nuggets star Jokic has a unique combination of skills and a super high basketball IQ, which makes him stand out among the top players in the NBA. In addition, some people may notice Jokic's extraordinarily calm qualities.

Unlike other superstars, Jokic has never collapsed under high pressure or at key points in the game. Other players who can achieve the same level of achievement often need to spend time and energy honing this mentality, but Jokic has had this composure since he was a child.

The three-time MVP winner said that he was born this way and will always be like this throughout his life. Jokic also mentioned that this is why he has never felt any pressure even when playing in the NBA.

"Pressure can only be bad for you," the Nuggets All-Star center said. "You just have to go out there — and I'm telling you, every NBA game is like a street ball back home to me. You have to play with that mentality, no pressure. Yes, you have to do what you have to do, but it's just a game at the end of the day."

"My dad is actually not a relaxed person," Jokic said by comparison. "He gets nervous easily and always wants to do everything well. But I am the complete opposite of him, I am very calm... Now my calmness is driving him crazy, and nothing seems to affect me."

During Jokic's childhood, Serbia did not broadcast all NBA games. Thanks to video websites, young Jokic was able to watch the highlights of many NBA stars. Among his idols of all time is fellow big man and multiple-time MVP winner Tim Duncan.

Jokic admitted that he admires Duncan very much. He still remembers the excitement when he saw the "Stone Buddha" for the first time in his rookie season. But even at a young age, Jokic already knew not to be dazzled by the aura of his idol.

It is this innate composure that allows Jokic to focus on the game itself. As a rookie, he performed well against Duncan, scoring 23 points and 12 rebounds, but the Nuggets ultimately lost to the Spurs that night.

"I mean, I really like Tim Duncan, and it means a lot to me to be able to play with him," Jokic said frankly, "but when you step on the court, if you always think about what he has accomplished, how good he is, or what he wants. , then you will definitely not play well in this game. You can't keep thinking about him, you have to focus on yourself, just play at your normal level."

Over time, people gradually discovered that nothing can put pressure on Jokic, especially on the court. No matter whether the outcome of the game is at stake, Jokic always maintains a calm attitude, which has also earned him a unique recognition and respect in the NBA.

For Jokic, basketball is just a game, even in the NBA. Even though some may disagree with the Serbian superstar's mentality, there is no doubt that it is what helped Jokic become one of the greatest players of his generation.