As EuroBasket 2025 approaches, Serbia is once again at the center of attention. With Nikola Jokic and Bogdan Bogdanovic leading the charge, the Balkan powerhouse is widely considered one of the strongest contenders for the gold medal. The combination of Jokic’s unique skill set and Bogdanovic’s sharp shooting creates a dynamic that few international teams can match. Beyond the sheer talent, what makes Serbia so dangerous is their chemistry, selflessness, and the fact that their superstar duo shares not just the court but also a deep understanding of each other’s game.

Recently, Bogdan Bogdanovic spoke glowingly about Jokic, describing his teammate in ways that perfectly explain why the Denver Nuggets’ big man has become the face of modern basketball. His admiration for Jokic highlights more than just raw talent—it shines a light on the basketball IQ that makes Jokic a once-in-a-generation player.

The Praise From Bogdanovic

In an interview ahead of EuroBasket, Bogdanovic didn’t hold back when discussing Jokic.
“I think everybody knows about his IQ and feel for the game, but what is really making him special, I think, is his basketball shape for his size, the ability to run and conditioning. His front vision. I feel like he knows what’s going to happen steps ahead. It brings probably the highest confidence that I got to play with anyone else.”

Those words paint a clear picture of why Jokic is not just Serbia’s leader but also the reigning king of world basketball. He’s not the flashiest athlete, nor is he the most explosive scorer, but Jokic’s ability to think ahead, anticipate plays, and control the flow of the game is unmatched.

Why Jokic’s IQ Is Different

Many players are gifted with athleticism or shooting touch, but Jokic possesses a unique quality: he sees the game like a chessboard. His court vision allows him to make passes that most guards wouldn’t attempt, let alone a 7-footer. His timing in picking apart defenses with pinpoint passes is what separates him from others.

Bogdanovic highlighted this in his remarks, noting Jokic’s conditioning for his size. At over 280 pounds, Jokic runs the floor, makes reads in transition, and keeps defenses on edge by simply being unpredictable. Where most big men focus on dominating in the post, Jokic thrives as the hub of an offense, often functioning as both a center and a point guard.

Chemistry Between Jokic and Bogdanovic

Serbia’s chances at EuroBasket rest not just on Jokic’s dominance but also on his partnership with Bogdanovic. Over the years, their chemistry has blossomed, with Bogdanovic benefiting from Jokic’s unselfishness. While Bogdanovic has always been a capable scorer, playing alongside Jokic elevates his efficiency.

Bogdanovic, who is renowned for his ability to hit big shots, understands that Jokic’s presence opens up opportunities. Defenses collapsing on Jokic often leave Bogdanovic wide open on the perimeter. Conversely, Bogdanovic’s shooting makes it harder for opponents to double-team Jokic, giving the Serbian big man more space to operate.

This synergy is crucial because, unlike many other national teams that struggle with role allocation, Serbia’s hierarchy is crystal clear: Jokic is the anchor, and Bogdanovic is the lethal perimeter weapon. The lack of ego between them allows the team to function seamlessly.

Serbia’s EuroBasket 2025 Outlook

Heading into EuroBasket 2025, Serbia is considered among the top favorites. The roster is loaded not just with Jokic and Bogdanovic but also a mix of versatile role players who complement their stars. Years of continuity, coupled with a winning mentality, give Serbia a huge edge over nations that rely heavily on NBA stars who don’t always commit to international play.

What makes this team especially dangerous is that it doesn’t rely on one-dimensional basketball. Serbia can slow the game down and run their offense through Jokic in the half-court, or they can push the pace with Bogdanovic and their guards. The balance between inside-out play makes them one of the most complete teams in the tournament.

The Global Impact of Jokic

Jokic’s brilliance goes beyond EuroBasket. His rise as an NBA champion and two-time MVP has placed him among the greatest international players of all time. For Serbia, he represents more than just a star—he embodies the possibility of turning intelligence and skill into dominance on the global stage.

Bogdanovic’s praise is particularly significant because he has played alongside several elite players in the NBA. For him to say that Jokic gives him the highest confidence he has ever had with a teammate is a testament to Jokic’s ability to elevate those around him.

A Legacy in the Making

For Bogdanovic, teaming up with Jokic at EuroBasket is not just about chasing a medal—it’s about cementing their place in history. Serbia has come close in recent years but has not always capitalized on their talent. With Jokic in his prime and Bogdanovic at the peak of his career, EuroBasket 2025 may represent their best chance yet.

Fans across Europe are eagerly anticipating how this partnership will unfold on the biggest stage. The stakes are high, and the spotlight will be on whether Jokic’s basketball IQ and Bogdanovic’s scoring can finally deliver Serbia the gold medal.

Conclusion

Bogdan Bogdanovic’s words highlight what makes Nikola Jokic such a special player: his unparalleled basketball IQ, vision, and ability to elevate his teammates. Together, they form a duo that has the potential to dominate EuroBasket 2025.

As the tournament draws near, the world will watch to see if Serbia can fulfill their promise. For Bogdanovic, playing alongside Jokic is not just about medals—it’s about being part of something extraordinary. For Jokic, it’s another opportunity to show that basketball brilliance isn’t just about points and rebounds but about seeing the game in ways others cannot.

If Bogdanovic’s admiration is any indication, Serbia’s journey at EuroBasket 2025 will be fueled by a blend of trust, intelligence, and undeniable talent.