Knicks’ standout player Julius Randle recently shared his early impressions and subsequent admiration for Denver Nuggets‘ superstar Nikola Jokic, his fellow draft classmate from the 2014 NBA Draft. Randle reminisced about his initial doubts regarding Jokic’s skills, attributing them to Jokic’s unassuming appearance. However, as Randle witnessed Joker’s on-court dominance, he quickly realized his mistake and was left amazed by Jokic’s talent and development.
Randle’s recollection sheds light on the journey of two players who entered the league together and highlights Jokic’s remarkable transformation into a multiple-time MVP and NBA champion. It serves as a reminder to never underestimate a player’s potential, even if initial impressions suggest otherwise.
Julius Randle showers praise on Nikola Jokic
Julius Randle of the NY Knicks recently expressed his love for Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic, expressing his awe at Jokic’s extraordinary skills and improvement. Randle recalled their first encounters, when he underestimated Jokic’s ability because of his appearance. However, after seeing Jokic’s on-court play, Randle recognised the Serbian’s outstanding skill.
Randle admitted that the Serbian had always possessed the abilities, but it was Joker’s consistent growth over the years that pleased him the most. Despite his reservations, Randle now sees the MVP as a fantastic player who polished his skills and became a dominant force in the NBA.
Reflecting on Jokers accomplishments, which include two MVP awards and an NBA title, Randle stated that if the 2014 class was re-drafted, Jokic would most likely be taken first overall owing to his extraordinary career trajectory. Randle’s praise for jersey number 15 ,underscores the two players’ mutual respect and appreciation, as well as the transforming journey, Jokic has made to become one of the league’s most successful players.
Randle’s remarks attest to Jokic’s passion and work ethic, emphasising the significance of constant growth in reaching NBA success. The story focuses on Jokic’s transformation from an unknown second-round choice to a basketball superstar, urging future athletes to believe in their abilities and strive for greatness.
What pick was Jokic in the draft?
Nikola Jokic was selected by the Denver Nuggets as the 41st overall pick in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft. This draft position was deemed to be late, especially given Jokic’s outstanding accomplishments in his NBA career thus far.
Many teams passed on Jokic throughout the draft process because to worries about his athleticism and lack of experience playing in Europe. The Nuggets, on the other hand, recognised potential in the young Serbian centre and took a bet on him.
Since then, Joker has outperformed all expectations to emerge as one of the league’s most dominant and skilled players. The Serbian giant has received numerous individual honours, including two Most Valuable Player titles, and has guided the Nuggets to long playoff campaigns.
Julius Randle, a member of the 2014 NBA Draft class, recently expressed his love for Jokic, despite originally doubting his ability. Randle recalls being amazed by Jokic’s on-court performance, emphasising his great skills and growth throughout his career. Jokic’s climb from late second-round pick to NBA champion and MVP is a tribute to his brilliance and hard effort, demonstrating that a player’s draught position does not always define his or her future.
