Nikola Jokic Tells Booing Nuggets Fans They Are "Not Welcome Anymore" After OT Win

Nikola Jokic speaks after leading Denver to an overtime win over New Orleans.© Ndtv Gallery

Nikola Jokic had a clear message for Denver Nuggets fans who booed the team during its home opener against the New Orleans Pelicans. After helping Denver recover from a 23-point deficit to win 141-135 in overtime on Saturday, the three-time NBA MVP said fans who booed the team should stop coming to games. Jokic finished with 35 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists, while Jamal Murray scored 42 points to lead the comeback. The win gave Denver its first victory of the 2026-27 season, but Jokic's postgame comments shifted attention to the tension between the players and their own home crowd.

Nikola Jokic Calls Out Denver Nuggets Fans After First-Half Boos

Denver trailed 73-57 at halftime after struggling to stop New Orleans, and sections of the Ball Arena crowd booed the team as the players left the court. Jokic was asked about the reserve players who helped spark the comeback, but he turned his answer toward the fans.

“Yeah, I'm actually so glad that you mentioned that because we got booed in the first home game,” Jokic told reporters. “I think those fans who boo us, they don't need to come anymore. Because if you guys follow us, you know that we never quit, and we came back from much worse or similar situations. So if you ask me, they're not welcome anymore.”

He was asked whether Nuggets fans should continue supporting the team during difficult stretches. Jokic kept his answer short: “Yes,” Jokic stated. “If they're Nuggets fans, they should support us.”

The reaction came as Denver tried to recover from a poor start to its home schedule. The team had lost its season opener to Oklahoma City, and the home crowd was unhappy as New Orleans built a big lead.

“Nothing goes your way, and they're making shots. You're not making shots, so it was just bad energy,” Jokic said, addressing the early-game funk. “You need a couple minutes to go by so you can get out of that bad … I don't know how to say, energy, whatever it is.”

Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic Lead Denver Nuggets' 23-Point Comeback

Denver found its rhythm in the fourth quarter, outscoring New Orleans 37-18 to force overtime. Murray scored 42 points, including eight three-pointers, and tied the game at 126-126 with late free throws.

Jokic then scored eight points in overtime to help secure the win. His triple-double was the 199th of his regular-season career, leaving him behind Russell Westbrook's record of 209.

Jokic also praised Murray for believing Denver could win while the team was trailing.

“Even like we were down 16 … he said we can win this,” Jokic said.

The Nuggets improved to 1-1 and will host the Golden State Warriors on Monday.