Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic achieved a remarkable milestone on March 14, 2024, by surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most career assists by an NBA center during a 126-115 victory over the Orlando Magic. Entering the game, Jokic needed just seven assists to break the record, held by the legendary Lakers player, who finished his career with 5,660 assists.
Jokic’s performance was outstanding, as he recorded 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists on an efficient 10-for-17 shooting over 38 minutes. The pivotal moment came with 6:26 remaining in the second quarter when he assisted Jalen Pickett on a three-pointer, marking the record-breaking assist.
The significance of this achievement resonated throughout the Nuggets organization. Head coach David Adelman emphasized the historical context of Jokic’s feat, stating, “For those of us that love the history of the game, that one should be wrote about and talked about, and that should be a national story… Kareem is in the conversation,” he noted, referencing Abdul-Jabbar’s impressive track record, including multiple MVP awards and championship titles.
Jokic’s teammate, Jamal Murray, reflected on the moment, expressing pride in sharing the court with Jokic for the past nine years. “This is a time that I can be able to look back and appreciate all the years I’ve had to play this game with him,” Murray said. “It’s special. Passing Kareem in anything is pretty cool. So I think it just speaks to his greatness and how unselfish he is.”
Jokic himself acknowledged the importance of assists, saying, “I always say the assist makes two people happy (instead of one). My coach ‘Deki,’ he always said that.” This tribute to the late Dejan Milojevic, a former assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, highlights Jokic’s appreciation for teamwork and shared success.
As Jokic continues to set records, this achievement not only reflects his individual brilliance but also reinforces the Nuggets’ status as a competitive force in the NBA. Jokic’s ability to blend scoring with playmaking highlights the evolution of the center position in modern basketball, showcasing his versatility and vision on the court.
The Nuggets will undoubtedly look to build on this momentum as they navigate the remainder of the season, with Jokic at the helm, leading through both scoring and assisting. His record-breaking performance against the Magic serves as a testament to his skill and dedication, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.
