Nikola Jokić made headlines earlier this summer by announcing his intention to continue another season without signing a contract extension with the Denver Nuggets. The three-time NBA MVP insists he plans to remain with the Nuggets for the remainder of his career, yet uncertainty lingers until an official agreement is in place.

Greek billionaire Dimitrios Giannakopoulos, owner of the Greek League powerhouse Panathinaikos, expressed hopes of luring Jokić to Europe. On the Euro Insiders podcast, Giannakopoulos revealed he had previously attempted to buy Jokić out of his existing contract—worth $121.8 million over two years, with a player option for 2027-28—but faced rejection.

"And the one player who is a dream of mine... It's Jokić! It's the best player in the world!" Giannakopoulos stated. "I did make a very serious proposal this year both to his team and to him. I got a rejection."

Despite the rejection, Giannakopoulos remains determined, stating, "Let's wait until next year."

While many view this as a billionaire's daydream, speculation exists about Jokić potentially returning to Europe to play closer to home. His affection for Serbia is well-documented, including a memorable MVP presentation while riding horses.

Nonetheless, it remains unlikely for Jokić to leave the NBA during his prime, especially with a significant contract extension—potentially a record 5-year, $360 million deal—waiting for him next summer from the Nuggets. Panathinaikos would need to present an offer compelling enough to persuade Jokić to decline such a lucrative opportunity.