In a league overflowing with talent and rising stars, Nikola Jokić has once again separated himself from the rest of the pack. The Serbian big man has not only carried the Denver Nuggets to new heights in the 2024-25 NBA season, but he has also redefined what it means to be a modern-day center. After another jaw-dropping campaign, NBA.com officially hailed Jokić as the “Undisputed King of the Western Conference,” cementing his legacy among the greatest big men the sport has ever seen. This recognition from the league’s official media platform comes after a season that saw Jokić break statistical barriers, lead with unmatched efficiency, and exhibit a basketball IQ that is nothing short of revolutionary. Despite narrowly missing out on the MVP award, his influence was undeniable. The numbers, the victories, and the awe-inspiring moments all point to one undeniable truth—Nikola Jokić owns the West.

From 41st Pick to Generational Greatness

Nikola Jokić’s rise to stardom is one of the most improbable stories in professional basketball. Selected 41st overall in the 2014 NBA Draft, few expected the then-chubby teenager from Sombor, Serbia, to become the face of a franchise—let alone the most unique and dominant center in NBA history. And yet, over a decade later, Jokić stands as the gold standard for not just centers but basketball players, period. His journey is a lesson in perseverance, adaptability, and an obsession with mastering the game on every level. What makes Jokić particularly exceptional is that he didn’t achieve greatness through sheer athleticism or brute force. Instead, he has built his game on finesse, creativity, vision, and basketball intelligence. In the 2024-25 season, those qualities combined in unprecedented fashion, culminating in one of the most historic triple-double seasons in league history.

A Historic Triple-Double Season That Redefined Big-Man Play

Throughout the 2024-25 regular season, Nikola Jokić averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. It was his third season averaging a triple-double, a feat only achieved previously by Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook, both guards. But what makes Jokić’s accomplishment even more mind-blowing is that he did it while playing the center position—one traditionally dominated by post-ups, rebounds, and shot-blocking. Jokić’s version of center play is entirely different. He’s the point-center, floor general, and scoring anchor rolled into one. He orchestrates the Nuggets’ offense like a maestro, delivering laser-sharp passes, launching step-back threes, and executing no-look dimes through traffic. Defenders often appear confused—not because of poor scouting—but because Jokić plays chess while they’re stuck playing checkers. He shot 57.6% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc, proving that efficiency is a constant companion to his volume. And when the Nuggets needed him most, he delivered in historic fashion.

Setting New Benchmarks: A Record of 30-20-20 Games

One of the major highlights of Jokić’s 2024-25 season was him becoming the first player in NBA history to record multiple 30-point, 20-rebound, and 20-assist games in a single season. This wasn’t a fluke—it was a natural result of his usage, skill set, and understanding of how to manipulate defenses. In fact, his triple-doubles weren’t even the most jaw-dropping aspect of his stat lines anymore. Fans and analysts began to wonder: What can’t Jokić do? And for much of the year, there didn’t seem to be an answer. NBA analyst Shaun Powell summed it up best: “He is not only the best player in basketball, but he is also experiencing one of the greatest runs in the history of the sport. His ability to achieve triple-doubles consistently and his capacity to carry the franchise are clear indicators of his greatness.”

Transforming the Nuggets and the Conference

It’s impossible to talk about Jokić without discussing his impact on the Denver Nuggets franchise and the Western Conference at large. His presence has shifted the balance of power in the West over the last few years. Once a perennial playoff hopeful, the Nuggets are now consistent title contenders, and Jokić is at the heart of that transformation. The 2024-25 season saw Denver finish second in the Western Conference standings, just a few games behind the dominant Oklahoma City Thunder led by MVP Chet Holmgren. But in terms of consistency and team chemistry, the Nuggets were arguably the most balanced and dangerous squad in the league. Under Jokić’s leadership, Denver posted one of the top-rated offenses in the NBA, with an offensive rating of 119.5 and a league-leading assist-to-turnover ratio. Players like Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon all flourished playing alongside their MVP-caliber teammate. Off the court, Jokić has become the embodiment of humility and team-first mentality. He rarely seeks attention, often deflecting praise to his teammates and coaches. This attitude, coupled with his genius-level play, has turned him into a respected figure not only among fans but among his peers and former legends of the game.

Beyond MVP Votes: Legacy in Progress

While Jokić narrowly missed out on the MVP trophy this season—finishing second in the voting behind Chet Holmgren—there’s no doubt that his legacy continues to grow. He already holds two MVPs, an NBA championship (2023), a Finals MVP, and multiple All-NBA First Team selections. But his continued evolution shows that he’s still far from done. His game ages gracefully because it doesn’t rely on athleticism. His impact grows season after season because of his cerebral approach. And his numbers—those absurd triple-doubles—continue to place him in a statistical universe of his own.

The Face of a New NBA Era

Jokić’s unique style of play has inspired a new generation of players. Young centers and even guards are now watching his tape, learning how to process the game in motion, how to read double teams, how to throw a pass that splits defenders perfectly. The “Jokić Effect” is already visible across the league. He has also changed the perception of international players in the NBA. Following the path carved by legends like Dirk Nowitzki, Manu Ginóbili, and Pau Gasol, Jokić is now the leading light of the international wave—proving that talent and basketball IQ know no borders.

Conclusion: A Reign Worthy of Royalty

By every imaginable metric—statistical, cultural, and competitive—Nikola Jokić is the undisputed king of the Western Conference. His 2024-25 season not only adds to his growing legend but also acts as a blueprint for what modern big men can aspire to be. Whether it’s leading his team to victory, posting mind-boggling numbers, or redefining how we think about the center position, Jokić’s influence is simply unmatched. And as the NBA world eagerly looks toward the playoffs and the seasons to come, one thing is certain: Nikola Jokić isn’t done ruling just yet.