Serbias EuroBasket title ambitions face a major test after a key injury forces Nikola Jokic and company to adjust on the fly.

IMAGE: Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) during the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Ball Arena. / Ron Chenoy / Imagn Images

Serbia entered EuroBasket 2025 as the team to beat – and for good reason. With Nikola Jokić anchoring the roster, there’s no shortage of star power, experience, or high-level execution.

The reigning NBA MVP brings more than just jaw-dropping stat lines; he brings stability, leadership, and a basketball IQ that’s second to none. But even with Jokić in the fold, Serbia just took a major hit.

Bogdan Bogdanović, Serbia’s captain and one of the most reliable three-point threats in international play, exited their second group-stage matchup against Portugal with a hamstring injury. According to reports, the injury could sideline him for the remainder of the tournament – a blow that shifts the outlook for a team with championship aspirations.

Bogdanović isn’t just a shooter – he’s a tone-setter. His ability to stretch the floor, create in pick-and-roll situations, and knock down clutch shots makes him a vital piece of Serbia’s offense. He’s been through the battles, including last year’s Olympic run in Paris, and his absence leaves a leadership void both on and off the court.

Now, the spotlight intensifies on Jokić. He’s more than capable of carrying the load – we’ve seen him do it time and again with the Denver Nuggets – but EuroBasket is a different animal.

Opposing defenses will key in on him even more now, daring the rest of Serbia’s roster to step up. The good news?

This team isn’t short on depth or experience. Still, losing your captain mid-tournament is never part of the plan.

As for Bogdanović, the timing of the injury raises questions about his availability for the upcoming NBA season. With training camp for the Los Angeles Clippers just around the corner, all eyes will be on his recovery timeline.

Hamstring injuries are notoriously unpredictable. They can linger, especially for a player like Bogdanović who relies on quick bursts and off-ball movement to get his shots.

At this stage in his career, the Clippers are likely to take a cautious approach. They’ve bolstered their roster this offseason, giving them some cushion in case Bogdanović isn’t ready right out of the gate.

But make no mistake – when healthy, he’s a difference-maker. His shooting, savvy, and veteran presence are exactly what playoff-caliber teams lean on come spring.

For now, Serbia has to regroup and recalibrate. With Jokić leading the way, they’re still in the mix – but the road just got a bit steeper.