Nikola Jokic Reacts to Question About His Kisses During Nuggets’ Big Win…
Saturday, May 3, was a big night for the Denver Nuggets as they secured a spot in the Western Conference semifinals with a dominant 120-101 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 7. It was a smooth win, but that didn’t stop the team from celebrating in style once the final buzzer sounded.
Jokic had an impressive stat line in the game, finishing with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. But it wasn’t just his performance on the court that got people talking—his affectionate sideline moment with teammate Deandre Jordan also drew attention, particularly from Charles Barkley.
Jokic’s Cheeky Kisses Spark Questions
Jokic was caught on camera planting three kisses on Deandre Jordan’s cheek while the two were on the bench. It’s clear there’s a lot of camaraderie within the Nuggets, and Jokic didn’t hold back in showing it.
After the game, during an appearance on Inside the NBA, Jokic was asked about the kisses—and his response was pure Jokic.
“Three kisses? That’s a Serbian thing,” he said. “He wants to be Serbian, so I gave him a little taste.”
Barkley couldn’t resist throwing in a joke, asking, “Is that the ugliest person you’ve ever kissed?”
Jokic considered it for a second, almost playing along, but then took the high road. “No,” he replied. “Actually, hmmm, that’s a good one.” A classy answer—true to the saying, a gentleman never kisses and tells.
Next Up: Thunder Clash Looms
After the big win, Nuggets interim head coach David Adelman acknowledged the victory but quickly shifted his focus to the next challenge: the Oklahoma City Thunder. That series begins Monday, May 5.
“It feels good,” Adelman said after the game. “But I also know we’re flying to OKC tomorrow. This wasn’t the championship. It may have felt like it to fans with all the drama and intensity, but it’s just one more step.”
The upcoming matchup will see Jokic go head-to-head with MVP finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander—something Jokic is ready for, but not underestimating.
“He’s a very unique player,” Jokic said of Gilgeous-Alexander. “He scores at every level, plays with pace and rhythm. Everything looks effortless with him. Even when you think you’ve defended him well, he makes it look easy. He’s got the full package—handles, speed changes, post-up game, mid-range. Basically un-guardable.”
Teammate Christian Braun had high praise for Jokic after the win, saying, “Honestly, I think Nikola just had the greatest season ever. I don’t know if we’ll ever see anyone else pull off what he did in one regular season again.”
