In a league where greatness is constantly redefined, Nikola Jokić continues to set a standard few can match. The Denver Nuggets superstar has carved out his legacy with 34 triple-doubles in a single regular season, an achievement that cements his status among the NBA’s most versatile and impactful players.

What makes Jokić’s feat even more impressive is his position. In a world dominated by scoring guards and versatile wings, Jokić has redefined what it means to be a big man in the NBA. His ability to orchestrate the offense, dominate the boards, and score efficiently puts him in a category of his own.

Shaquille O’Neal: “Jokić is the Best Big Man in the League by Far”

When Shaquille O’Neal, one of the most dominant centers in basketball history, speaks, the basketball world listens. And recently, Shaq delivered a resounding endorsement of Jokić’s place atop the NBA hierarchy.

“Joker no matter what happens is the best big man in the league by far. Period. Nobody else in the conversation,” O’Neal declared.

This wasn’t just casual praise. Coming from a Hall of Famer who defined an era of interior dominance, Shaq’s words carry weight. O’Neal recognizes in Jokić a player who not only matches but surpasses today’s competition in terms of skill, basketball IQ, and game-changing impact.

A New Alliance: Jokić Joins Forces with Udonis Haslem and a Celtics Legend

In a move that has sent ripples across the basketball community, Nikola Jokić is reportedly collaborating on a significant off-court project led by a Boston Celtics legend. While details remain under wraps, early reports suggest that this initiative aims to shape the future of NBA culture, player mentorship, and possibly global basketball development.

Key figures involved include Udonis Haslem, the long-time Miami Heat veteran known for his leadership and mentorship, and a yet-to-be-revealed Celtics icon rumored to be a champion of player empowerment.

This alliance between an active MVP-caliber player, a respected veteran leader, and a Celtics great hints at something bigger than basketball. It reflects the NBA’s evolving landscape, where players are increasingly using their platforms to create lasting change.

What Could This Project Mean for the NBA?

If speculation holds true, this project could touch several key areas:

Player Development Programs: Using their combined experience, the group could launch initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent, particularly international players who look up to Jokić’s rise from Serbia to NBA superstardom.

Mental Health & Player Wellness: With Jokić often emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and work-life balance, this project may aim to give players the tools to handle the pressures of professional basketball.

Global Expansion: Basketball’s popularity is soaring worldwide, and with Jokić’s European roots, this project could build bridges between the NBA and emerging markets in Europe and beyond.

Leadership Mentorship: Udonis Haslem’s role with the Heat has long been about guiding young players. Together with Jokić’s leadership on the Nuggets and the Celtics legend’s wisdom, they could create leadership academies for future stars.

Nikola Jokić: More Than Just a Player

This move is the latest example of Nikola Jokić’s growing influence beyond the hardwood. While some NBA stars chase media exposure or commercial fame, Jokić’s approach remains authentic and grounded. He lets his play speak for itself and focuses his energy on projects that align with his personal values.

Jokić has never hidden his preference for a quieter life away from the spotlight. His summers in Serbia are filled with family time and horse racing, not endorsement shoots. Yet, when he steps on the court, his brilliance commands global attention.

This new project suggests that while Jokić avoids the social media hype, he’s deeply aware of his role as a leader and role model in today’s NBA.

Triple-Double Prowess That’s Shattering NBA Records

Let’s not forget the basketball side of the story. Jokić’s 34 triple-doubles this past regular season have him climbing the all-time rankings at a historic pace. His efficiency and consistency as a triple-double threat are unheard of for a center.

Unlike past triple-double kings like Russell Westbrook or Oscar Robertson, Jokić’s triple-doubles rarely come through sheer volume of shots. Instead, they’re the byproduct of his selfless play, court vision, and unique ability to control every aspect of the game.

He’s averaging near career highs in all major categories:

Points: 27.3 per game

Rebounds: 12.4 per game

Assists: 9.8 per game

Field Goal Percentage: 58.2%

And most importantly, when Jokić posts a triple-double, the Denver Nuggets almost always win.

Jokić’s Triple-Doubles: A Blueprint for Modern Centers

Historically, big men dominated the paint and occasionally passed out of double teams. Jokić, however, runs Denver’s entire offense. He’s equally likely to initiate a fast break as he is to post up and score. His basketball IQ and decision-making are second to none.

NBA teams are now searching for the “next Jokić” — a center who can:

Pass like a guard

Rebound like a traditional big man

Score at all three levels

Read the defense and adapt instantly

The truth is, there might not be another Nikola Jokić. He’s a one-of-a-kind generational talent.

The Nuggets Are Building Around Jokić’s Legacy

The Denver Nuggets front office knows what they have in Nikola Jokić. They are carefully constructing a team that complements his unselfish style. Players like Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. benefit from his passing, while role players thrive in their specific roles.

This offseason, reports suggest the Nuggets are looking to:

Add defensive depth to relieve Jokić’s load in the paint.

Bring in additional shooting to space the floor.

Reduce media pressure on Jokić, allowing him to focus solely on basketball.

The result is a Nuggets squad poised to remain a title contender for years to come, provided Jokić stays healthy and motivated.

The NBA’s Future Runs Through Nikola Jokić

With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career and younger stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Dončić, and Jayson Tatum chasing greatness, Nikola Jokić stands as the league’s most complete player right now.

His ability to adapt to any defensive scheme, impact every facet of the game, and make his teammates better puts him in a class of his own.

If this off-court project with Udonis Haslem and a Celtics legend further enhances his leadership credentials, Jokić’s influence on the NBA could extend far beyond his playing years.

Shaq’s Praise Validates Jokić’s Historic Run

Shaquille O’Neal’s blunt endorsement only solidifies what fans and analysts already know:

“Joker no matter what happens is the best big man in the league by far.”

Coming from a player who dominated the paint like few others, that’s not faint praise. It’s a torch-passing moment. Jokić has evolved the center position in a way Shaq, Wilt Chamberlain, or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar never had to — not because they lacked talent, but because the game itself has changed.

Jokić is thriving in the modern NBA, where centers are expected to shoot, pass, and defend on the perimeter.

What Comes Next for Nikola Jokić?

As the 2025-26 NBA season unfolds, all eyes are on Denver. Can Jokić lead the Nuggets to another championship? Will he continue to rewrite the record books with his triple-doubles? And what exactly is this new project aiming to accomplish?

Whatever the answers, one thing is clear: Nikola Jokić is not finished making history.

Conclusion: Jokić’s Journey from Serbia to NBA Icon Continues

From humble beginnings in Sombor, Serbia, to becoming a two-time NBA MVP and Finals MVP, Nikola Jokić’s journey is already one of basketball’s greatest stories.

Now, by joining forces with respected veterans and legends off the court, Jokić is showing that his vision for basketball goes beyond wins and statistics. He’s shaping the game’s future — as a player, leader, and innovator.

The only question left is: who can stop him?

Right now, the answer seems to be no one.