In the world of modern NBA superstardom—where image, endorsements, and legacy often drive decisions—Nikola Jokic remains an anomaly. The reigning face of the Denver Nuggets, a three-time MVP and 2023 NBA champion, Jokic is widely regarded as the most unassuming superstar in basketball. But if not for a fateful locker room conversation in 2022, Jokic’s story might have ended far earlier than fans expected.

In a recent surprising revelation, former Nuggets center DeMarcus Cousins opened up about a candid moment he shared with Jokic during their time together in Denver—one that involved the Serbian big man nearly walking away from the game entirely.

A Shocking Confession in the Locker Room

Speaking during an interview, Cousins painted a vivid picture of a mellow, grounded Jokic—one who had little desire for the glitz of NBA stardom. The two shared adjacent lockers during Cousins’ brief stint in Denver, and it was in that setting that Jokic revealed a bombshell.

“I don’t remember who had just signed an extension at the time, but I told him: ‘Your new contract is going to be insane!’” Cousins recalled.
“He told me: ‘Cuz, I might retire before that contract.’”

At that moment, Cousins was stunned. Jokic wasn’t just joking around—he was seriously considering leaving basketball behind, despite being on the cusp of what would later become a five-year, $276 million extension, the largest in NBA history at the time.

“I said: ‘You’re going to leave $300 million on the table? Are you crazy?’” Cousins said.
“Then he told me: ‘Cuz, I just want to go back to my hometown and chill with my horses.’”

For most players, that kind of money is an automatic green light. But for Jokic, it was never about the money. His heart lies in Sombor, Serbia, where he owns and breeds horses—a passion that has never taken a backseat to his basketball career.

“I told him: ‘Joke, those horses will be there. You’ll just buy more horses with $300 million!’” Cousins added, laughing.

A Superstar Unlike Any Other

The anecdote aligns perfectly with Jokic’s public persona. Jokic has long expressed a love for his simple life in Serbia—one filled with family, horses, and peace. His low-profile lifestyle contrasts starkly with that of other NBA stars who chase brand deals, fashion statements, and media attention.

In fact, even after helping the Nuggets capture their first-ever NBA championship in 2023, Jokic didn’t bask in the spotlight. He famously looked disappointed during the trophy presentation, eager to return to Serbia for the horse racing season.

“Basketball is not the main thing in my life,” Jokic has stated on multiple occasions. “It’s just something I do well.”

That humility—and emotional detachment from the game’s chaos—has only deepened fans’ appreciation for him.

The Nuggets’ Offseason Gamble to Keep Jokic Happy

Fast-forward to the 2025 offseason, and the Denver Nuggets have made it clear: they’re going all-in to maximize Jokic’s remaining years—however many that may be.

Following back-to-back second-round playoff exits, the Nuggets overhauled their roster, making several key moves:

Michael Porter Jr. was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cameron Johnson, bringing in a more consistent two-way wing.

Jonas Valanciunas was acquired from the Sacramento Kings to add rebounding and interior toughness.

Bruce Brown returned via free agency after a stint with Indiana.

Tim Hardaway Jr. was also signed, adding veteran shooting depth to the bench.

These changes signal a clear message: Denver is serious about chasing another title, and they’re doing everything possible to convince Jokic to stick around long-term.

Jokic Delays Extension Talks — Should Denver Be Worried?

Despite the flurry of offseason activity, Jokic has reportedly chosen not to sign a new contract extension until next offseason, raising eyebrows across the league.

While some insiders suggest this is merely a calculated move to assess how well the team gels this season, others are understandably concerned given Jokic’s prior near-retirement comments.

Could he actually walk away from the game in his prime? It’s not impossible.

Jokic has accomplished nearly everything a player could hope for:

Three MVP trophies

A Finals MVP

A championship

Multiple All-NBA selections

Recognition as arguably the most skilled big man in league history

What’s left for a player who already views basketball as secondary?

That question hangs over the Nuggets like a quiet storm cloud. The front office’s aggressive moves could be interpreted not only as a bid for another title—but also as a strategy to keep Jokic engaged and motivated.

Jokic’s Legacy: Already Cemented, But Unfinished?

If Nikola Jokic were to retire tomorrow, he would still be considered a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He has redefined what it means to be a center in the modern NBA. His unmatched combination of size, vision, passing ability, and efficiency have changed the blueprint for future big men.

But fans—and the league—aren’t ready to see him go.

While stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant chase legacy through longevity, Jokic represents a different kind of greatness. One that’s rooted in balance, not obsession. And that makes the possibility of his early departure both understandable and terrifying.

If he does choose to walk away in the coming years, it won’t be because of physical decline or burnout—it will be because he knows when he’s had enough.

Final Thoughts: Appreciate the Joker While He’s Here

DeMarcus Cousins’ story sheds new light on how fragile success can be in professional sports. One of the NBA’s most dominant players nearly walked away—not because of injury or scandal, but because he preferred the calm simplicity of a barn in Serbia to the bright lights of the NBA.

And maybe that’s what makes Jokic so special. In a league driven by ego, social media, and endless self-promotion, he reminds us that greatness doesn’t have to be loud. Sometimes, it just wants to be left alone—with a few horses, a glass of wine, and a quiet place to breathe.

As the 2025–26 season approaches, the Denver Nuggets are poised for another run. And while fans will hope for another MVP-caliber year from their stoic star, perhaps they’ll also watch with a new appreciation—knowing just how close Jokic came to riding off into the sunset… literally.