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Jay Williams Says Nikola Jokic is Outpacing 3 All-Time Great Centers - Doesn't Get Love Like LeBron Or Steph

Originally posted on The Spun | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Apr 2, 2025 12:10 PM ET

Nikola Jokic became the third player in NBA history to post a 60-point triple-double after James Harden (2018) and Luka Doncic (2022). Following his 60, 10, 10 night, Jokic was showered with praise not only by his teammates but Minnesota Timberwolves' star Anthony Edwards.

Former player-turned-analyst Jay Williams shared a lengthy message on X to praise Jokic's performance against Minnesota. The ESPN analyst said Jokic's persona doesn't fit with the narrative the NBA wants to push.

While noting Jokic's unflashy playstyle and personality, Williams said that the Serbian big man has already outpaced some legendary centers with his performances.

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) reacts after a three-point basket against the Washington Wizards.Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

"If LeBron or Steph dropped 61, 10, and 10 in a game this time of year, we’d shut down the internet & ESPN would talk about it for 2 days straight," Williams said. "But when Jokic does it, it’s just another night. Why? Because he doesn’t look the part. He’s not flashy... Not loud. But make no mistake — skill for skill, he’s already outpacing Shaq, Hakeem, even Kareem.

"We’re just afraid to say it. Jokic isn’t just the best player in the world — he’s quietly building one of the greatest legacies we’ve ever seen — & media is still acting like it’s a fluke."

The Truth abt Nikola Jokic:

If LeBron or Steph dropped 61, 10, and 10 in a game this time of year , we’d shut down the internet & ESPN would talk about it for 2 days straight.. But when Jokic does it, it’s just another night. Why? Because he doesn’t look the part. He’s not…
— Jay Williams (@RealJayWilliams) April 2, 2025

Williams doubled down on Wednesday's edition of "Get Up," calling his performance against the Timberwolves one of the greatest he ever saw, adding that Jokic is the best big man of all time.

"This was one of the greatest performances individually I have ever seen. ... You are looking at one of the most gifted, if not the best big men, maybe to ever play the game."

—@RealJayWilliams on Nikola Jokić recording the NBA’s third-ever 60-point triple-double pic.twitter.com/J7hqSpsQ4x
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) April 2, 2025

After reclaiming his throne as the most valuable player in the NBA in 2024, Jokic is again a strong candidate to win the MVP award. The Oklahoma City Thunder's record could tip the balance in favor of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but Jokic keeps streghntening his case to become the sixth player in history with at least four MVP trophies.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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