Nikola Jovic made some waves during the 2022 NBA Draft, but in truth, it was mostly because of how he has such a similar name to reigning back-to-back league MVP Nikola Jokic — for casual basketball fans, at least. However, what cannot be denied is that the 19-year-old has a lot of untapped potential within him. The Miami Heat definitely seem to believe so.
The Heat used their No. 27 overall pick in the draft to scoop up Jovic. There were rumblings of Miami potentially trading away that first-round pick, but obviously, nothing came to fruition. It's likely that the team's affinity towards the young Serbian had some sort of influence on their decision to hold on to their pick.
Speaking to the press recently, Jovic revealed the mindset he currently has ahead of his rookie campaign. At this point, the 6-foot-10 swingman is raring to go:
“I can’t wait to play you know, I love the game of basketball,” Jovic said. “Mentally it’s never been a problem for me so I can’t wait to get to Summer League.
“Walking down those hallways seeing all those pictures with the championships… You wanna work, that’s all.”
Nikola Jovic: “I can’t wait to play you know, I love the game of basketball. Mentally it’s never been a problem for me so I can’t wait to get to Summer League.”
“Walking down those hallways seeing all those pictures with the championships.”
“You wanna work, that’s all.” pic.twitter.com/ml4uRGjFOE
— alex (@tropicalblanket) June 27, 2022
Pat Riley and the Heat love hard workers, and based on his statement here, it sounds like Jovic fits the bill. Miami supporters are already starting to love this young man, and it wouldn't be surprising if he ends up a fan favorite this coming season.
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