Bogdan Bogdanovic has always been regarded as one of the NBA’s most reliable shooters and versatile scorers. From his early days in Sacramento to his current role with the Atlanta Hawks, the Serbian guard has built a reputation as a dependable perimeter threat and clutch performer. Yet despite his individual success, Bogdanovic admits that playing alongside his countryman, Nikola Jokic, has completely transformed the way he views the game of basketball.

The two recently shared the floor while representing Serbia in international competition, and Bogdanovic could not stop praising the reigning Finals MVP. For him, teaming up with Jokic was not just about playing with a superstar—it was about experiencing basketball at a higher, almost instinctive level.

Jokic’s Vision Creates Opportunities

Bogdanovic highlighted Jokic’s “front vision,” describing it as a rare ability to see plays unfold long before they happen. While most players read defenses and react, Jokic seems to anticipate every move several steps in advance.

“When you play with him,” Bogdanovic explained, “you just have to be ready. He knows where the ball will go, where the defender will shift, and where the open shot will be—even before you do. That makes everything so much easier.”

This predictive passing style allows teammates like Bogdanovic to thrive without overthinking. Instead of forcing shots or creating in isolation, he can rely on Jokic to deliver the ball at the perfect moment. The synergy between them feels natural, almost effortless, with Jokic orchestrating plays as though he’s conducting an orchestra.

Confidence at an All-Time High

For Bogdanovic, perhaps the most significant impact of playing with Jokic is the surge in confidence he feels on the court. While he has played alongside stars in the NBA before, none have given him the belief and trust that Jokic inspires.

“No one has ever boosted my confidence the way he does,” Bogdanovic admitted. “He makes you feel like every shot you take is the right one. When the best player in the world trusts you, it changes everything about how you play.”

That sense of empowerment is crucial for a scorer like Bogdanovic, who thrives when he feels free to shoot without hesitation. Jokic’s unselfish style ensures that every teammate feels valued, creating an environment where role players elevate their performances far beyond expectations.

Lessons from a Basketball Genius

Jokic is widely recognized not just for his MVP awards and championships but for his unique approach to the game. He doesn’t rely on overwhelming athleticism; instead, he uses skill, timing, and intelligence. For Bogdanovic, being around that kind of mindset has been an education in itself.

“He predicts the game in a way I’ve never seen before,” Bogdanovic said. “It’s like he’s always two or three plays ahead of everyone else. Playing with him teaches you to think faster, react smarter, and trust the flow of the game.”

This influence extends beyond international tournaments. Bogdanovic has taken these lessons back to his NBA role, applying Jokic’s philosophies to his own decision-making. His improved patience, shot selection, and awareness are a direct reflection of the time spent sharing the floor with the Denver Nuggets superstar.

Elevating Serbian Basketball

The connection between Bogdanovic and Jokic goes beyond individual growth—it reflects the strength of Serbian basketball as a whole. Serbia has long produced elite talents, but Jokic’s rise to global superstardom has brought unprecedented attention to the country’s basketball culture.

Playing together on the national team highlights what makes Serbian players special: toughness, fundamentals, and a team-first mentality. Bogdanovic thrives as a scorer, while Jokic provides the backbone of creativity and leadership. Together, they form a duo that can challenge any opponent on the international stage.

The pride of representing their country adds another layer of motivation. For Bogdanovic, playing alongside Jokic isn’t just about personal improvement—it’s about carrying Serbian basketball forward and showing the world what their program can achieve.

Looking Ahead

As Bogdanovic continues his NBA career with the Hawks, the lessons learned from Jokic remain with him. While he may not have the luxury of sharing the court with the Nuggets center every night, the confidence and vision he gained during their time together will stay with him permanently.

With Jokic entering his prime years and Bogdanovic still a valuable piece for both his NBA team and Serbia, the potential for future success—both domestically and internationally—is high. The two may not be NBA teammates, but every time they link up for Serbia, fans witness a partnership built on trust, intelligence, and unselfish basketball.

Conclusion

For Bogdan Bogdanovic, playing with Nikola Jokic has been more than just a basketball experience—it has been transformative. Jokic’s ability to read the game, anticipate plays, and elevate those around him has given Bogdanovic a new level of confidence and perspective. More than stats or highlights, it’s the feeling of trust and empowerment that Jokic instills in his teammates that makes him so unique.

As Bogdanovic himself said, no one has ever boosted his confidence the way Jokic does. That statement alone captures the essence of Jokic’s greatness: a superstar who not only dominates the game but also makes everyone around him better.