Nikola Vucevic Declares One Goal Before Career Ends: NBA Championship
Nikola Vucevic doesn’t mince words. In an exclusive interview ahead of the EuroBasket with Montenegro, the 34-year-old Chicago Bulls center laid it all on the line: there’s only one thing left for him before his career winds down—winning an NBA title.
Seated comfortably in a hotel in La Roche-sur-Yon, just before facing France in early August, Vucevic radiated calm and confidence. But behind that relaxed exterior is a man laser-focused on his ambitions. “I want to play for a team that’s aiming to win an NBA championship,” he said. “That’s my priority before I hang up my sneakers.”
The Bulls stalwart, who will turn 35 this October, has had a remarkable career. Last season, he averaged 18.5 points on 53% shooting, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists over 31 minutes across 73 games. Yet despite his consistency, the playoffs have remained elusive—three consecutive seasons eliminated in the play-in tournament, most recently by Miami. Frustrating? Absolutely. But Vucevic insists the hunger remains.
“Every player wants to be in the playoffs,” he admitted. “It’s tough, especially with the repeated play-in eliminations. But I’m proud of my performance, my adaptation to the team’s style, and the way I bounced back from a slightly down season in 2023-24.”
Before returning full-time to NBA ambitions, Vucevic is fully committed to Montenegro. The EuroBasket (August 27 – September 14) could be his final international tournament, and he’s determined to leave on a high note. “This may be my last one. I’ll be 36 or 37 by the next championship, and I need to focus more on my NBA career and my body’s recovery,” he said, emphasizing the importance of family and summer downtime with his three children.
Despite being a small nation with limited basketball talent, Montenegro has been punching above its weight. Vucevic highlighted the rise of the next generation, particularly Luka Bogavac, a potential future leader who will play at North Carolina next season. “There’s real chemistry and drive in this group. That’s why we’ve had some of our best results recently,” he explained.
Turning back to Chicago, Vucevic dismissed summer trade rumors. “I know how this business works. In the final year of a contract, speculation is everywhere. Most of it is nonsense,” he said. The Bulls’ GM reassured him that nothing had changed, and Vucevic is preparing to start the season in Illinois.
But could a championship run happen in Chicago? “Maybe not this season. We’re a young team, but you never know—ambitions change quickly with trades and injuries,” he said.
Vucevic also shared insights on the Bulls’ young talents. Josh Giddey, the Australian point guard, impressed with his adaptability and playmaking, while 20-year-old Matas Buzelis is already making waves with his maturity and confidence. “He’s a player I really like. Young, talented, and realistic about what he can do,” Vucevic said.
As for his own future, he’s taking it year by year. “I haven’t set an age limit. As long as I feel physically and mentally strong, and my role fits, I’ll keep playing. I feel great coming off a strong season, entering my last year of contract with Chicago. After that, we’ll see.”
Finally, Vucevic expressed pride for his close friend Evan Fournier, who has revived his career at Olympiakos after two difficult seasons in the NBA. “The fans and energy there brought the flame back. I’m happy for him,” he said.
One thing is clear: Nikola Vucevic’s story isn’t finished. His eyes are set firmly on the ultimate prize, and nothing—rumors, age, or setbacks—will derail him. A championship is more than a goal; it’s his mission.
Leave a Reply