NBA superstar Nikola Jokic used to drink three litres of Coca-Cola every day

04 June 2023 , 17:02

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Nikola Jokic is hoping to lead the Denver Nuggets to a first NBA championship in franchise history (Image: AP)

Denver Nuggets star and two-time MVP Nikola Jokic remarkably used to drink three litres of Coca-Cola each and every day.

Since entering the NBA as a second-round draft pick in 2014, Jokic has steadily developed into one of the best players in the league. He has spearheaded the Nuggets' c harge to the 2023 NBA Finals, where they lead the Miami Heat after winning Game 1 on Thursday night.

Against the Heat, Jokic put up a trademark triple-double as he tallied 27 points to go with 14 assists and 10 rebounds to inspire Denver to the 104-93 victory. His 14 assists are the most by a centre in NBA Finals history, highlighting his unprecedented skillset that has dominated the league over the last few years.

While the five-time All-Star is at the peak of his powers nowadays, this was not always the case. Jokic recently admitted he had transformed his body with the help of daily double workout sessions led by Nuggets strength and conditioning coaching duo Steve Hess and Felipe Eichenberger.

During an interview with ESPN back in 2017, the Serb sensationally admitted he had been drinking three litres of Coca-Cola every day prior to entering the NBA. Jokic no longer consumes the popular soft drink, although he suggested his change in palate likely led to his transformation into one of the best basketball players in the world.

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“Never in the morning, because we had practices in the morning, and I could never drink before,” the 28-year-old said. “But after practice, it was glass after glass. I couldn't stop.

Nikola Jokic starred with a triple-double in the Game 1 win (AP)

“I haven't had any in the last one-and-a-half years. On my flight to come to Denver, I had my last Coke ever.”

When asked if he suffered any withdrawals, Jokic added: “No. Nothing. It was easy. It felt really good, actually. It was good to know I didn't need it.”

Jokic led the way against the Heat, but it was an all-round performance as the Nuggets took control of the NBA Finals. Jamal Murray scored 26 points while Aaron Gordon put up 16 as Michael Porter Jr. added 13 rebounds.

Jokic and the Nuggets host the Heat at Ball Arena for Game 2 on Sunday night.

Andrew Gamble