Nikola Jokic's plans for the 2024 summer become a bit more clear

Given the way the Nuggets 2023-2024 season ended, it was fair to think Nikola Jokic (and the rest of the players) would disappear to an extent and take some time off from basketball. Beyond the disappointing end to the season, it marked the end of a long two-year run that has undoubtedly taken a physical and mental toll on everyone.

First, they played deep into June of 2023, leaving everything on the line to win the first championship in franchise history. They turned around and battled through the entire regular season to defend their title, ultimately falling short of the goal in a heartbreaking game 7 loss to the Timberwolves.

Nobody could possibly begrudge anyone for taking some time to rest and clear their minds. It seems like that is exactly what Jokic has been doing as he’s been back home in Europe, attending horse races and going on rafting trips; spending time with loved ones, and likely taking a bit of a break from basketball.

Nikola Jokic set to play in the 2024 Paris Olympics

But now we have some confirmation of when we’ll next see Jokic on a basketball court as the initial roster for the Serbian National Team was released for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and Jokic’s name was unsurprisingly on the list.

This always seemed likely as Jokic has been a proud countryman and always shows up to represent his country. But there was no official confirmation, and he’d be well within his rights to take a break and extend his offseason before heading back to Denver for the 2024-25 NBA season.

Team Serbia littered with NBA talent

Things can still change in the next month or so as this is just an initial roster, but as long as he stays healthy, it would be pretty surprising to see Jokic pull out of the Olympics. He feels he owes it to his country and his teammates and with him leading the way, they have a legitimate chance to medal.

Along with Jokic, the team boasts several other current NBA players: Bogdan Bogdanovic from the Hawks, Nikola Jovic from the Heat, and Vasilije Micic and Aleksej Pokusevski from the Hornets. Being able to boast five NBA players, including the best player in the world is a pretty solid foundation and I expect Team Serbia to be a force in the coming Olympics.