Goran Dragic has officially closed the curtain on his illustrious 15-season NBA career. Having played for seven different franchises, Dragic's journey in basketball has truly been remarkable, culminating in a memorable farewell game in Slovenia.
A Fitting Farewell in Slovenia
Dragic's farewell game was nothing short of a star-studded event, featuring a lineup of basketball luminaries both current and former. The highlight of the night was none other than Nikola Jokic, who thrilled the audience with an impressive display of skills. Jokic showcased his versatility by setting himself up for a dunk with an alley-oop off the backboard, putting his athleticism on full display.
The 2023 NBA MVP also took the opportunity to entertain the crowd with a playful side. Jokic was seen pouring water on Luka Doncic during a timeout, much to the delight of fans. Additionally, he paired with Boban Marjanovic for an impromptu dance, adding a touch of humor to the event. The entertainment didn't stop there, as Jokic also wowed the audience with a difficult one-legged 3-pointer, reminding everyone why he is one of the most versatile big men in the game today.
Jokic's 2023-2024 Season
Last season, Jokic brought his electric play to the NBA, contributing significantly to the Denver Nuggets' success. While he ranked 182nd in the league for total dunks with 17 in 79 games, trailing behind players like Trey Jemison, Anthony Black, and his teammate Christian Braun, his impact on the game extends far beyond dunking. Jokic's playmaking and scoring abilities make him an indispensable asset to his team.
Olympic Glory and Upcoming Season
Jokic also had a noteworthy performance on the international stage, nearly leading Serbia to a victory over Team USA in the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Ultimately, Serbia secured a bronze medal, adding another accolade to Jokic's distinguished career.
As the NBA prepares for another thrilling season, the Denver Nuggets are already gearing up for their media day, which is just a month away. Fans have much to look forward to, as the team will travel to Abu Dhabi for a pair of exhibition games against the Boston Celtics. The excitement continues to build for their regular-season opener on October 24 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Goran Dragic's retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of basketball players. Meanwhile, Jokic and the Denver Nuggets are poised for another promising season, and fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see what unfolds.