Jokic and Suns Owner Ishbia Share Warm Embrace, Joke About Fine Ahead of Game 5

In Game 4 between the Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns, Nikola Jokic had a minor spat with Suns owner Mat Ishbia, resulting in a technical foul and a $25,000 fine for the Nuggets’ center.

However, before Game 5, the pair shared a warm pre-game embrace, with Jokic jokingly hoping Ishbia would cover his fine.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone commended both the NBA’s handling of the situation and Ishbia’s sportsmanship in not wanting any player suspensions. To prevent future incidents, the NBA has placed conduct reminders on front-row seats, including Ishbia’s.

“I was hoping he was gonna pay my fine, but no.” 🤣

Jokic says it’s all love after seeing Mat Ishbia pre-game 💯 pic.twitter.com/Iqj50Ymf0Y

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 10, 2023