Dirk Nowitzki Speaks on 'Incredible' Potential Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic Team-Up

Dirk Nowitzki discusses the possibility of Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic teaming up in Dallas, highlighting their relationship as a factor.

Dec 18, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) in the second quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports / Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Basketball legends are currently gathered in Ljubljana to celebrate the basketball career of Slovenian star Goran Dragic as he enters retirement during "The Night of the Dragon," an event that brought together some of the sport’s most iconic figures, including Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash. 

Amid the celebrations, the conversation inevitably turned to the future of European basketball, particularly the tantalizing prospect of Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic teaming up in the NBA.

When asked about the possibility of Doncic and Jokic playing together, Nowitzki, a Dallas Mavericks legend, didn’t hesitate to express his hopes. 

“I hope that would be in Dallas,” Nowitzki told reporters, via EuroHoops.com. “I’m not sure if that will ever happen, but obviously both are two of the best players in the world. If not the best players in the world.”

Jedan od gostiju oproštajne utakmice Gorana Dragića biće i veliki Dirk Novicki, a ovo je bio njegov odgovor na pitanje da li bi voleo da vidi Nikolu Jokića i Luku Dončića u istoj ekipi 🗣️☝🏻#nowitzki #jokic #doncic pic.twitter.com/xjzyfsRddr

— Meridian Sport Srbija (@meridiansportrs) August 23, 2024

Nowitzki emphasized the strong relationship between the European stars, suggesting that their camaraderie and relationship could translate into something special.

“They both have a great relationship with each other, they respect each other and like each other genuinely,” Nowitzki observed. “They spend time with each other. I’m not sure, but of course, we want Luka in Dallas as long as we can."

Regardless of whether Doncic or Jokic ever play together in the NBA, Nowitzki would appreciate seeing Doncic play his whole career with the Mavericks. 

"Hopefully, he finishes his career there, but I love Jokic's game, how he plays the game with passion, and the skill level as a big is unbelievable. They’re both incredible players.”

Mavericks' Luka Doncic on European stars potentially being the face of the NBA:

"Obviously Giannis and Jokic are way ahead, you know, they're two-time MVPs..." pic.twitter.com/99E7vLVF8M

— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) February 19, 2023

During the NBA All-Star Weekend media festivities, Jokic was asked about teaming up with Doncic in the future. He admitted it's possible but he doesn't want to leave Denver. 

"I don't know," Jokic said in a translated answer in February. "It's possible. I don't want to leave Denver. I like it there and it's a great organization. But if Luka gets pissed off in Dallas, he can come."

Given Jokic's success with the Nuggets, including an NBA championship, it's difficult to envision him leaving Denver anytime soon, if ever at all. 

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