Nikola Jokic has been performing efficiently and effectively. While his teammates rely on his playmaking, the Joker has been unpredictable for his opponents.
Though his playing style and character on the court are understandable, where did his nickname come from?
During a recent episode of Paul George’s podcast, former Denver Nuggets player Mike Miller shared the story behind the origins of Jokic’s famous nickname.
Miller joined the Nuggets in the same season that Jokic made his NBA debut, and he quickly recognized the young Serbian’s incredible talent. Not only did he see that potential, but he also decided to give Nikola Jokic a nickname that would stick with him throughout his career.
Miller recalled how he came up with ‘The Joker,’ sharing that it was partly because he had a hard time saying Jokic’s name quickly during games.
“I gave him the nickname ‘The Joker,’ one because I couldn’t say ‘Jokic pass the ball’, so I said ‘Joker pass the ball’. HIs personality and the way he plays, it’s like a joker. Like every time I saw him, that’s a joke and I couldn’t say Jokic fast enough to pass it to him. Joker was it,” Miller said.
Mike Miller reveals how he came up with Jokic's 'Joker' nickname 🃏
— Podcast P with Paul George (@PodcastPShow) June 2, 2025
"I literally couldn't say, 'Jokic past the f***ing ball.'"@Pick6 pic.twitter.com/mipyDrZXvQ
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Instead of fumbling over the pronunciation, he opted for a simpler, catchier version: “Joker.” He also shared that Jokic’s playful demeanor on the court reminded him of a joker in a deck of cards. Unpredictable and fun.
Also Read: Nikola Jokic’s Watch Collection: Timepieces That Match The Joker’s Quiet Greatness
Nikola Jokic Loves Dressing Like The Joker
While Nikola Jokic is league-wide known as The Joker, the Serbian giant has also started embracing his nickname.
Before Game 3 against the Oklahoma City Thunder last month, Jokic arrived at the arena in The Joker Suit. His outfit featured a deep purple suit, a green vest, and a crisp white shirt, capturing the essence of the iconic DC villain.
Joker dressed like the Joker for Game 3 😂🃏
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 9, 2025
10 PM ET on ESPN 🍿
(via @NBA)pic.twitter.com/2ZHVXeWGml
Though his fans on social media were all in a good mood over the surprising suit.
Something that started with his teammate’s ‘Joke’ on the court is now a full-blown second identity.
Also Read: NBA Fans Crack All Sorts Of Wild Jokes After Spotting Nikola Jokic’s Brother On The Sidelines
