How Kentucky’s Andrija Jelavic Stacks Up Against Three-Time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić at the Same Age

How Kentucky’s Andrija Jelavic Stacks Up Against Three-Time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić at the Same Age

The University of Kentucky recently secured a significant international commitment with the addition of Croatian big man Andrija Jelavic for the 2025–26 season. Standing at 6-foot-11 and weighing 220 pounds, Jelavic brings a versatile skill set to the Wildcats, honed through his experience with Mega MIS in the competitive Adriatic League.

In the 2023–24 season, Jelavic averaged 10.3 points on 47.1% shooting, along with 7.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game over 31.7 minutes. His performance peaked during the playoffs, where he posted 13.8 points on an impressive 70.4% shooting from the field and 44.4% from three-point range.

Jelavic’s ability to stretch the floor is evident from his 52 three-pointers in 53 ABA League games, maintaining over 48% shooting over two seasons.

Comparing Jelavic to Nikola Jokić at a similar age offers intriguing insights. Jokić, now a three-time NBA MVP and widely regarded as one of the greatest centers of all time, began his professional career with Mega Basket in Serbia before being drafted 41st overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2014. At age 20, during the 2015–16 NBA season, Jokić averaged 10.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game over 21.7 minutes, shooting 51.2% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc.

While both players share similar physical attributes and European training backgrounds, their styles differ. Jokić is renowned for his exceptional passing and playmaking abilities, leading to his historic 30-point, 20-rebound, and 20-assist game—the first in NBA history.

Jelavic, on the other hand, is noted for his athleticism and shooting prowess, particularly his capacity to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting.

Jelavic’s addition to Kentucky addresses critical roster needs, especially with Jayden Quaintance recovering from ACL surgery and incoming freshman Malachi Moreno yet to debut. His international experience and skill set are expected to provide immediate impact and depth to the Wildcats’ frontcourt.

While it’s premature to predict Jelavic’s trajectory to mirror Jokić’s illustrious career, his current performance metrics and adaptability suggest a promising future. As he transitions to NCAA basketball, observers will keenly watch how his game evolves and whether he can emulate the success of his compatriot on the global stage.