Have you ever heard of someone who didn’t even play basketball as a kid but ended up dominating in the NBA? Jusuf Nurkić is exactly that story.

Today, we’re walking together through the inspiring path of this Bosnian giant—how he went from a small town to becoming a key player in the NBA. Trust us, it’s a story full of twists, hard work, and strong comebacks. Let’s get started!

Early Life in Tuzla: A Humble Beginning

Jusuf Nurkić was born on August 23, 1994, in Tuzla, a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Unlike many basketball stars, he didn’t grow up dribbling a ball or dreaming of the NBA. His family lived a simple life, and his father was a well-known local police officer—standing over 7 feet tall and weighing more than 400 pounds! That genetic gift would later shape Nurkić’s future.

A Life-Changing Encounter

Nurkić’s life took a dramatic turn thanks to a Serbian sports agent who noticed his father’s size in the newspaper. The agent thought, “If his dad is this huge, maybe the son can be something too.” At just 14 years old, Nurkić was taken to Slovenia to learn basketball from scratch. Imagine that—zero experience, but full of potential. Within a few short years, he was catching attention all across Europe.

Making Waves in Europe

Before heading to the NBA, we saw Nurkić develop quickly in European leagues. He played for Cedevita Zagreb and made his name in the Adriatic League. His combination of size, footwork, and toughness turned heads. By the time 2014 came around, NBA scouts were seriously watching him.

Draft Night Drama and a New Start

In the 2014 NBA Draft, Nurkić was selected 16th overall by the Chicago Bulls. But things changed fast—he was immediately traded to the Denver Nuggets. This marked the true beginning of his NBA journey. In his rookie season, he didn’t disappoint, even earning a spot on the All-Rookie Second Team in 2015. Not bad for a guy who only started playing five years earlier!

From Nuggets to Trail Blazers: Rising Strong

By 2017, Nurkić had been traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. And that’s where he truly came into his own. His chemistry with teammates and dominance in the paint made him a fan favorite. In the 2018–19 season, he was honored with the Maurice Lucas Award—given to players who show heart and leadership on and off the court. For us watching, it was clear: Nurkić had become more than just a big man. He was a leader.

Tough Times and Powerful Comebacks

Injuries are part of the game, and sadly, Nurkić went through some difficult ones. But every time he went down, he came back stronger. That determination reminded us of his roots—resilience, grit, and the will to rise. Through it all, he kept improving and helping his teams compete at a high level.

Shifting Teams, Staying Strong

In September 2023, Nurkić was traded to the Suns basketball team. Then, in February 2025, he moved again—this time to the Charlotte Hornets. And just a few months later, in June 2025, he was traded to the Utah Jazz. Even with the constant changes, we saw Nurkić stay solid. His experience, basketball IQ, and presence continue to bring value wherever he goes.

Representing His Roots

Nurkić isn’t just about the NBA. He’s deeply proud of where he comes from. In October 2022, he joined the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team for the World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Every time he wears his national jersey, we can feel his passion and loyalty—it’s not just a game for him, it’s personal.

Why His Story Inspires Us

What makes Nurkić’s journey stand out isn’t just the stats or the teams. It’s his rise from a complete beginner to a global athlete. It’s the way he faced challenges, fought back from injuries, and stayed true to himself. He’s not just a player; he’s a symbol of possibility. For all of us chasing dreams, his story reminds us that it’s never too late to start, and the odds don’t have to define us.

Let’s Keep Rooting for the Big Man!

Lykkers, how amazing is Jusuf Nurkić’s journey? From a 14-year-old with no training to a powerful presence in the NBA—it’s the kind of story that fills us with hope. We’ll keep watching and cheering as he takes the next steps with the Utah Jazz. What part of his story inspired you the most? Let us know—we’re in this journey together, and we love hearing your thoughts!