Nikola Jokić, regarded as one of the NBA’s all-time greats—a champion, Finals MVP, and three-time MVP—was drafted during a Taco Bell commercial on ESPN, a memory that continues to resonate with him. Not always considered one of the best, Jokić was selected #41 overall in the 2014 NBA Draft, a notable gamble as second-round picks often come with uncertainty, particularly for international players. For instance, his Serbian compatriot Nemanja Dangubić was taken at #54 by the Philadelphia 76ers and never made it to the NBA.
To highlight the unique situation, Jokić experienced the added peculiarity of his draft selection occurring amidst a Taco Bell commercial. In a recent interview with the Nuggets’ social media team, Jokić revealed, “I’ve never eaten Taco Bell because of that.” This unusual statement underscores a rather bizarre yet fitting commentary on contemporary American life—one of sports’ most successful figures being influenced by a fast-food advertisement. Imagine if this had happened to Michael Jordan; his legendary career might have been driven by the same motivations, potentially warranting its own documentary series.
Jokic says he has never eaten Taco Bell because of draft night 🤣 https://t.co/gk6ir1vty8 pic.twitter.com/WfwRxWV2ih
— Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) February 22, 2025
Over a decade has passed since that fateful moment, so perhaps it’s time to let bygones be bygones. With his less-than-sculpted physique, Jokić would make an interesting Taco Bell spokesperson. A collaboration between Taco Bell and Jokić could result in one of the most memorable full-circle marketing moments ever.
