Nikola Jokic's Weight Loss Journey

Nikola Jokic went from a second-round pick to an NBA MVP due to his skills and work ethic. Jokic was always on the heavier side, weighing 255 pounds with extra noticeable fat when he was drafted in 2014; his weight was one of the reasons he dropped in the draft. He would gain weight in the NBA but always had room for improvement. He became an NBA all-star before becoming serious about his conditioning. It took until 2019 before he got into better shape after his friend and Denver Nuggets strength and conditioning coach Felipe Eichenberger challenged him to become an even more incredible player.

Jokic would give up soda, beer, and snacks. The only cheat foods allowed were orange juice and his mom's Serbian home cooking. He lost 20-30 pounds while gaining muscle by the time the 2019 season started. Even during the COVID pandemic, he would continue to eat healthier and lose more weight, around 40 pounds overall. His stats significantly jumped since then, averaging more minutes, points, and assists than before 2020. Jokic would win 2 MVPs and lead the Nuggets to a title in 2023.