By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Miami Heat picking up Nikola Jovic with the 27th pick of the 2022 NBA draft was a dream come true for the youngster. Next, finally meeting Denver Nuggets superstar and nearly namesake Nikola Jokic.
“This was a dream for me. Now, my dream came true,” he said talking to ESPN after overcoming early NBA struggles concerning the Heat cap properly fitting, “I am really lucky to be here right now. Thankful for the Miami organization considering me a good talent and drafting me.”
Jovic, 19, is the latest direct connection of Serbian club Mega Mozzart to the NBA. Jokic, also a Mega product, was selected with the 41st overall pick back in 2014. He went on to be the back-to-back MVP of the two last seasons and was also named an NBA All-Star from 2019 through 2022.
“I hope to meet Jokic soon, I haven’t met him yet,” repeated Jovic replying to a question about the Joker, “But I hope I meet him soon.”
Turning pro late in the 2020-21 season, the 2021-22 season was his first full campaign as a member of the senior squad of Mega. He generated 11.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game in the AdmiralBet ABA League.
“It was really tough there,” he commented on facing more experienced opponents, “I think my basketball IQ is what I practice there a lot. I have a little of an advantage there, just because I played against grown men.”
Photo Credit: Getty Images