The story of Nikola Jokić’s NBA draft moment reads like a comedy sketch – his selection by the Denver Nuggets as the 41st overall pick was upstaged by a Taco Bell commercial.
Back in 2014, no one could have predicted that this overlooked Serbian prospect would evolve into a three-time MVP and future Hall of Famer.
Yet while Jokić has proven every doubter wrong, he still maintains a playful beef with the fast-food chain.
That peculiar draft night moment – his name merely flashing across the screen during a Taco Bell ad – has become legendary NBA lore.
As Jokić’s star continued to rise, this quirky detail only grew more fascinating.
In a recent clip from the documentary Court of Gold, the Serbian superstar addressed the infamous Taco Bell connection with his characteristic dry humor.
“I think I never had a Taco Bell just because of that,” the 30-year-old revealed.
Jokic says he has never eaten Taco Bell because of draft night 🤣 https://t.co/gk6ir1vty8 pic.twitter.com/WfwRxWV2ih
— Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) February 22, 2025
While Taco Bell accidentally claimed his draft spotlight, Jokić was quietly building something special.
His journey has been remarkable – from those humble beginnings to multiple MVP awards and leading the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023.
The path to NBA dominance wasn’t just about developing his skills on the court.
Early in his career, Jokić faced fitness challenges, including an astounding daily intake of three liters of Coca-Cola.
Recognizing the need for change, he overhauled his diet, ditching sugary drinks for healthier alternatives.
This transformation helped shape him into one of the league’s most dominant players.
Through it all, Jokić has maintained his trademark wit and self-deprecating sense of humor, taking both his success and that memorable draft night slight in stride while continuing to etch his name in NBA history.
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