Critics say it's just a job, but Jokic sets the record straight: 'I love everything about basketball!'
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The Denver Nuggets secured their second preseason victory after edging the Chicago Bulls in a dramatic finish, powered by Nikola Jokic's 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Speaking to the media after the game, Jokic emphasized how much he enjoys seeing young players compete, reaffirming his deep passion for the sport.
"I love playing, I love everything about basketball. Especially when younger players get on the floor—it's great to see them learning and caring so much. It's just a joy," Nikola Jokic said.
He added that the team is focused on continuous progress and has made noticeable strides since the start of the preseason.
"We just want to keep improving, both offensively and defensively, and make certain things second nature. It was challenging, but I think we did a solid job—even though there's still plenty of room for growth," Jokic noted.
Jokic notches his first-ever preseason triple-double
The regular season has not even started yet, and Jokic is already dominating and racking up triple-doubles—needing less than 27 minutes on the floor to hit the milestone against Chicago.
Jokic finished the night with 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists—highlighted by several trademark passes—while shooting 8-of-12 from the field. Aaron Gordon led Denver in scoring with 25 points, Cam Johnson added 15, while Jamal Murray and Julian Strawther chipped in 13 each.
On the other end, Leonard Miller paced the Bulls with 26 points, Caleb Wilson had 17, Buddy Hield scored 15, and Matas Buzelis finished with 13.
VIDEO Jokic on captaincy and upcoming clash with Italy: The pressure is higher!
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