Nikola Jokic's Brother Punches Fan After Nuggets-Lakers Playoff Game, Police Investigating

Strahinja Jokic, the brother of Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, was involved in a physical altercation with a fan shortly after the Nuggets' Game 2 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in their NBA playoff series on April 23, 2024. The incident occurred inside Ball Arena in Denver and was captured on video.

In the footage, Strahinja Jokic can be seen climbing over a row of seats to confront the fan before throwing a punch that appeared to connect with the fan's head. Strahinja's brother Nemanja was also present, standing behind him in support. Nikola Jokic's wife Natalija tried to calm the situation and shield their daughter from the altercation.

The reason for the dispute between Strahinja Jokic and the fan is unclear. However, a witness claimed the fan had been harassing Nikola Jokic's wife and child prior to the physical confrontation.

Both the Denver Police Department and the NBA have launched investigations into the incident. The police are actively working to identify the fan who was struck and are encouraging anyone involved or who witnessed the event to come forward. No police report was filed at the time of the altercation.

Why this matters: The incident raises concerns about player and fan safety at NBA games and could lead to heightened security measures. It also has the potential to become a distraction for Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets as they continue their playoff run.

This is not the first time Nikola Jokic's brothers have been involved in confrontational incidents. They have a history of getting into heated exchanges with players, fans, and referees at Nuggets games. In 2019, Strahinja Jokic was arrested for allegedly choking and pushing a woman in a domestic dispute.

The Nuggets organization released a statement saying, "We are aware of the incident involving Nikola Jokic's brother and are working with the NBA and local authorities to gather more information. We will have no further comment at this time." The NBA is expected to take a hard stance on the matter to maintain a safe and respectful environment at games.

Key Takeaways

• Strahinja Jokic, Nikola's brother, involved in altercation with fan at Nuggets game.
• Strahinja seen climbing over seats and punching fan, Nikola's wife tried to intervene.
• Reason for dispute unclear, witness claims fan harassed Nikola's wife and child.
• Denver police and NBA investigating the incident, no police report filed at the time.
• Incident raises concerns about player and fan safety, Jokic brothers have history of confrontations.