While the NBA spotlight dims in the offseason, Nikola Jokić retreats to a very different stage—one not defined by flashing cameras or roaring crowds, but by the soft clop of horses’ hooves, the steady rush of a Serbian river, and the quiet rhythms of rural life.
After another stellar season that saw him secure his third NBA MVP award, Jokić has once again returned to his homeland of Serbia for a well-earned break. But don’t expect flashy vacations or celebrity sightings. The Denver Nuggets’ superstar finds joy in the kind of simplicity that’s rare among global sports icons.
Back to His Roots
In Sombor, a small town in northern Serbia, Jokić reconnects with his true sanctuary: his family, his horses, and the natural beauty of the Balkans. For Jokić, this isn’t just a retreat—it’s a return to the life that shaped him.
Known for his love of harness racing, Jokić spends much of his offseason tending to and training his horses. “Horses are my therapy,” he once said. The MVP reportedly owns several racehorses and even competes in amateur events, a passion that rivals his love for basketball.
Rafting and Recharging
This summer, Jokić has also taken to Serbia’s wild rivers, enjoying rafting trips with friends and family. Far from the pressure of the NBA’s grueling schedule, the natural landscapes offer him peace and clarity.
Local news outlets shared glimpses of the 7-footer casually navigating river rapids and enjoying quiet meals by the water’s edge. In one video that went viral, Jokić is seen laughing heartily, paddle in hand, far removed from the stoic demeanor he often shows courtside.
A Life of Balance
While many elite athletes spend their summers training in state-of-the-art facilities, Jokić’s approach to rest and recovery is refreshingly human. He values balance—and believes that emotional well-being off the court makes him a better player on it.
That mindset has paid off. Jokić’s unique playing style, combining exceptional vision, footwork, and composure, is a product not just of skill but of inner calm. His ability to slow down the game mirrors the unhurried pace of his Serbian summers.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025–26 NBA season looms, Jokić’s offseason sanctuary offers a powerful reminder that greatness doesn’t always come from grind culture. Sometimes, the best way to prepare for another run at a championship is by stepping back, embracing stillness, and reconnecting with what matters most.
Whether it’s trotting beside a prized horse or drifting down a river with loved ones, Nikola Jokić is showing the world that true MVPs know the value of home.
