Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic went head-to-head in a highly anticipated EuroBasket exhibition, but the biggest highlight came after the final buzzer. While Serbia cruised to a dominant 106-72 victory over Slovenia, it was a warm postgame embrace between the two NBA superstars that stole the spotlight. Jokic kissed Doncic on the cheek as they met on the court, and the moment quickly went viral as a rare glimpse of genuine friendship and respect between two of the game’s brightest international stars.
While some fans were surprised to see the embrace, it's perfectly normal in European culture, as many fans pointed out in the comments. This wasn't a moment of intense emotion; rather, it was just a sign of respect and appreciation for two great ballers and lifelong friends.
Regarding the game itself, it was a great ending to the exhibition stage and a reflection of just how much star power has been coming out of Europe lately. Starting with Lakers star Doncic (5x All-Star at 26 years old), his 17 points, seven rebounds, and four assists were not enough to lead his team to victory, but Serbia played him well and made it a point to try and keep him contained with smothering defense. He scored 11 points in the first quarter but eventually cooled down, finishing 2-of-10 from deep. Despite this loss, he's been earning praise all summer for his new and improved form.
Meanwhile, Nuggets center and 3x MVP Nikola Jokic got the win in this showdown, but he was relatively quiet compared to his usual stat line. He dropped 10 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, but it was more than enough to keep Serbia's perfect record intact through the exhibition stage. Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic was the unlikely hero in this one, leading his team in scoring with 18 points and seven rebounds.
The group stage begins next month, and that's when things will get really good. With big stars such as Jokic, Doncic, and Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo set to suit up, it's going to be an intense stretch of basketball over these next few weeks, and it's sure to provide us with even more viral content.
More importantly, it will set up Doncic and Jokic to have a dominant regular season. As training camp approaches, EuroBasket 2025 has allowed these stars to stay in shape and keep their feel for the game intact all summer long.
Of course, it's hard not to notice the bond between Jokic and Doncic. As two of Europe's greatest basketball stars, it's clear why they have such a tight bond, and they aren't afraid to show it. Whether it's a hint at a potential NBA partnership in the future remains to be seen, but it's always good to see two generational greats show love and respect for each other.
Moments like this remind fans that basketball is bigger than wins and losses. It’s about the connections, the pride, and the joy these players bring to the game. Doncic and Jokic might be on different teams now, but the respect between them runs deep and it's forged in competition, culture, and shared excellence on the global stage.
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