Jokic approaches 200 triple-doubles and lashes out at his fans: "They are no longer welcome"
Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic publicly criticized home fans who booed the team during a difficult first half in their season opener. Despite the tension, Jokic led a successful comeback victory, moving closer to the NBA's all-time triple-double record.
Why it matters
The story highlights the volatile relationship between professional athletes and fan bases, as well as the high-stakes nature of NBA performance culture.
The Nuggets' home opener was as turbulent as it gets. The home team found themselves trailing the Pelicans by 23 points (30-53) amid boos from their own fans. Then came a great comeback in the second half, an overtime victory, and Nikola Jokic's criticism of those who booed the team. "They booed us in our first home game, and I think those fans no longer have any reason to come. If they follow us, they know we never give up and that we have come back from much worse situations. So, if you ask me, they are no longer welcome", said the Serbian center, who finished with 35 points, eight of them in overtime, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. It was his 199th triple-double of his NBA career, which now leaves him just 10 short of Russell Westbrook's record.
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