'Speaks to his greatness' – Jokic becomes sixth player in NBA history to reach 100 triple-doubles

Ben Somerford
March 1, 2023 14:16 MYT
Nikola Jokic became the sixth player in NBA history to reach 100 career triple-doubles as the Denver Nuggets won 133-112 against the Houston Rockets on Tuesday.

The Serbian center finished with 14 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his 24th triple-double of the season.

It was also Jokic's 15th triple-double in his past 20 games, with the Nuggets winning every game he has achieved the feat this season.

Nuggets head coach Michael Malone said: "We haven't lost a game in those triple-doubles which speaks to his greatness."

Jokic joined Russell Westbrook (198), Oscar Robertson (181), Magic Johnson (138), Jason Kidd (107) and LeBron James (106) in reaching triple figures for triple-doubles in the NBA.

Congrats to Nikola Jokic of the @nuggets for becoming the 6th player in NBA history to reach 100 career triple-doubles! pic.twitter.com/ZVx7B4sOWE

— NBA (@NBA) March 1, 2023
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At 28 years old, Jokic could foreseeably climb up that list if he continues on the trajectory of his past two back-to-back MVP seasons.

"For him to be mentioned with all these historical accomplishments, reminds you that we are so blessed to have a guy like Nikola," Malone added.

"I challenge all of us in Denver to never take him for granted. To never take his greatness for granted."

Malone subtly added that Jokic should win a third straight MVP, while discussing his strengths.

"We all know he's a two-time MVP, about to be a three-time MVP, you talk about the skill level, the IQ, the rebounding, playmaking, scoring all that but the intangibles are the areas Nikola has grown the most," Malone said.

On Jokic's defense, Malone added: "He's a high IQ player. He has tremendous anticipation and outstanding hand-eye coordination.

"People think if you're not a great athlete, you can't be a good defender but I think that's malarkey. I think Nikola is a living example of a guy who can be an effective defender and not necessarily be an elite athlete."

Coach after tonight's win in Houston pic.twitter.com/poAHoBE8gt

— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) March 1, 2023
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#Houston Rockets #Denver Nuggets #basketball #Nikola Jokic #Michael Malone
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