In a moment that marks the end of an era and the beginning of a lasting legacy, Nikola Jokić, the two-time MVP and heart of the Denver Nuggets, has announced plans to retire as a Nugget — with the franchise confirming a jersey retirement ceremony set for 2026.
The announcement, made jointly by Jokić and the Denver Nuggets front office, was met with an outpouring of emotion and celebration from fans, players, and basketball figures around the world.
“I’ve given everything to this city, and this city has given everything to me,” Jokić said in a statement. “There’s no other jersey I ever wanted to wear. Denver is my home forever.”
Jokić, 30, has spent his entire NBA career in Denver since being selected with the 41st overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft — a pick that turned out to be one of the greatest steals in league history. Known for his genius-level basketball IQ, jaw-dropping passing ability, and unshakable composure, Jokić became the face of a franchise and the catalyst for its first NBA championship in 2023.
His accolades speak for themselves:
- 2× NBA MVP (2021, 2022)
- NBA Finals MVP (2023)
- NBA Champion (2023)
- Multiple-time All-Star and All-NBA First Team member
- Denver’s all-time leader in nearly every statistical category
But beyond the stats, it was Jokić’s loyalty, humility, and joy for the game that made him a fan favorite and beloved figure in the Mile High City. The 2026 jersey retirement will be the first in Denver history to honor a player who played his entire career with the team, start to finish.
“Jokić is the Denver Nuggets,” said team owner Stan Kroenke. “He changed what was possible for our franchise and delivered a championship to this city. His No. 15 jersey will hang in the rafters as long as there’s basketball in Denver.”
The retirement ceremony will take place at Ball Arena, expected to draw a sold-out crowd and an all-star lineup of guests — including former teammates, coaches, NBA legends, and European basketball icons. The night will also include a tribute documentary, speeches from family members, and a special appearance by Jokić’s beloved horses, a nod to his love for life off the court in Serbia.
Social media lit up instantly after the news dropped, with fans sharing their favorite Jokić moments — from no-look passes to historic triple-doubles to his dry, hilarious postgame interviews.
As the NBA begins preparing for life after one of its most unique superstars, Denver fans will get the final word — and one unforgettable night — to celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime player who did it his way.
Nikola Jokić didn’t just play in Denver. He built it into a champion. And now, his legacy will live on — in the rafters, in the record books, and in the hearts of every Nuggets fan.
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