Nikola Jokic, born February 19, 1995, in Sombor, Serbia, is a celebrated NBA player and Denver Nuggets star. At 29 years old, Jokic has an estimated net worth of $50 million, solidifying his position as one of the league’s top players. Married to his high school sweetheart, Natalija Jokic, the couple shares a deep bond that began in their teenage years. They are proud parents to their daughter, Ognjena, born in September 2021, a milestone that has added a new dimension to Jokic’s life and career.
Key Takeaways
- Age, Family, and Net Worth: At 29, Nikola Jokic is a family man with a net worth of $50 million, balancing his NBA career and personal life.
- Marriage and Partnership: Married to high school sweetheart Natalija since 2020, their relationship is a testament to enduring love and mutual support.
- Parenting Perspective: As a father to Ognjena, Jokic navigates the challenges of balancing an NBA career with the joys and responsibilities of family life.
- Serbian Roots: Both Nikola and Natalija remain deeply connected to their hometown of Sombor, which they plan to return to after his basketball career ends.
- Legacy on and Off the Court: Jokic’s remarkable NBA achievements are matched by his commitment to maintaining a grounded and supportive family life.
High School Sweethearts
Nikola and Natalija Jokic’s love story began in their hometown of Sombor, Serbia, during their teenage years. Natalija often shares nostalgic throwbacks of their early days on her Instagram, capturing their journey from young love to becoming a family. Despite Jokic’s rise to NBA stardom, their bond remains rooted in the simplicity of their shared past.
In October 2020, after eight years together, the couple tied the knot in Sombor. Their wedding was a joyous celebration, filled with singing and dancing, reflecting their Serbian heritage. Jokic keeps this special day close by tying his wedding ring to his sneakers before every game, a touching reminder of his wife’s unwavering support.
Natalija’s Journey
Natalija Jokic, born and raised in Sombor, Serbia, is not only Nikola’s partner but also a former college volleyball player. She moved to the U.S. in 2013 to pursue her volleyball career at Seminole State College in Oklahoma. Natalija’s time in the U.S. played a significant role in encouraging Nikola to consider his basketball career in America.
When Jokic joined the Denver Nuggets in 2015, Natalija left her volleyball career to be with him. She later graduated from the Metropolitan State University of Denver in 2018, showcasing her commitment to personal growth while supporting her husband’s journey.
Parenting Joys
In September 2021, the couple welcomed their daughter, Ognjena, whose name translates to “fiery” in Serbian. Parenthood brought profound changes to Jokic’s life. Natalija and Ognjena are frequent fixtures at his games, cheering him on from the sidelines. The family’s unity is evident, with Natalija often dressing herself and their daughter in personalized outfits celebrating Jokic’s achievements.
However, the demands of an NBA career mean time away from family. In a 2023 interview, Jokic shared the emotional challenge of being away from Ognjena during the season, explaining, “I play 100 games away, I’m not home for 100 days. When I come home, Ognjena is different. Literally in five days, she changes.”
From Serbia to Denver
Both Nikola and Natalija hold their Serbian roots close to their hearts. Sombor, with its tranquil nature and familial culture, remains their sanctuary. Even after years in Denver, the couple returns to their hometown during the NBA off-season.
In 2022, Jokic accepted his second consecutive MVP award from a horse stable in Sombor, a setting that reflected his love for his hometown and his passion for horses. Jokic has expressed that once his NBA career concludes, he intends to return to Serbia permanently, where he can embrace the slower pace of life and the familiarity of his roots.
NBA Stardom
Since joining the NBA in 2015, Jokic has established himself as one of the most skilled and versatile players in the league. His accolades include being a multi-time NBA All-Star, two-time MVP, and leading the Nuggets to their first NBA Championship in 2023. Through it all, Natalija and Ognjena have been by his side, celebrating his milestones and cheering him on during critical moments.
In April 2023, Jokic became the first NBA player to average 25 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists through his first 50 career postseason games. Natalija and their daughter were present, a testament to the strong support system that fuels his success.
A Balanced Life
Despite his fame and fortune, Jokic prioritizes a grounded lifestyle. He enjoys the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with family, horse riding, and embracing nature. Natalija’s influence has been instrumental in maintaining this balance, creating a “normal life” that Jokic believes is vital for personal and professional success.
In a 2023 interview, he shared, “When you have a normal life, it lifts you up and only helps you.” This perspective is reflected in his down-to-earth demeanor, both on and off the court.
As of 2025, Nikola Jokic exemplifies the balance between professional excellence and personal fulfillment. With his wife Natalija and daughter Ognjena by his side, he continues to shine as a basketball icon and a devoted family man.