NBA star Nikola Jokić, a three-time MVP, displayed deep emotion when his horse, Demon Dell’Est, won the prestigious Dužijanac harness-racing event in Serbia on July 27, 2025. Known for his calm demeanor on the basketball court, Jokić’s tearful celebration revealed his lifelong passion for horse racing, a sport he has loved since childhood in his hometown of Sombor. His family’s stable, Dream Catcher, competes widely in Serbia’s harness-racing circuit, which connects him to his heritage and provides a grounding balance to his NBA stardom.

Jokić’s heartfelt reaction resonated globally, offering fans a glimpse of the man beyond the athlete and highlighting how personal passions and family traditions shape identity. Despite his dominance on the court—averaging near triple-double stats last season—Jokić prioritizes his love for horse racing, viewing it as his “real world.” His story underscores that true fulfillment often lies beyond professional success, rooted instead in authenticity, heritage, and purpose.