Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic's brother, Strahinja Jokic, 42, has been ordered to stay away from the fan that he punched during a 20-point comeback playoff win vs. the Lakers earlier in the year.
On Wednesday a ruling from a judge at the Denver County Court gave out this "protection order," as Strahinja had previously been charged with third-degree misdemeanor assault for the incident, after a video surfaced online of the Jokic brother laying out a disgruntled fan. This took place in the stands inside Ball Arena back on April 22 (Game 2; Western Conference 1st round playoffs).
One of Nikola Jokic’s older brothers punched a fan after last night’s Nuggets and Lakers game. 😳
(via cgallegos67/TT) pic.twitter.com/JdpNLxxjg0
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) April 23, 2024
According to court records, the victim claimed that he suffered from a concussion, as well as cuts and bruises on his face, following the hit. In view of the motive, Strahinja was apparently stepping up to defend an elderly person.
All in all, Strahinja will be back appearing before the judge in October, as he is expected to enter a plea at his next court date.
To point out, this is not the first time that Nikola's older brother has been caught up with the law, as in 2019 the Serbian was charged with assault in an incident where he allegedly choked and pushed a woman, while at the same time prevented her from calling 911, per the Denver Post.
In the end, he pleaded guilty to a felony charge of trespassing, in addition to a misdemeanor charge of obstructing phone service. To note, the trespassing, false imprisonment, and assault charges were all dismissed as a result of a plea agreement.
Strahinja is 6-foot-11 and had a European basketball career, but now he is often seen sitting courtside alongside the third Jokic brother, Nemanja, as they are always showing support for their 3x NBA MVP younger bro.
Hopefully from now on the big man keeps his hands to himself while watching the games, as he appears to have a dangerously strong right hook.
Related: Video: Brother Of Nikola Jokic Punches Fan During Nuggets' Comeback Win Over Lakers
