DENVER — In a moment straight out of Gotham City, Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić showed up to Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs dressed as his namesake — the Joker.

Ahead of the Nuggets’ critical Game 3 matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals, Jokić surprised fans and teammates alike by arriving at Ball Arena in full Joker attire: a purple suit, green vest, and a chain, mirroring the iconic look of the infamous Batman villain. The bold wardrobe move turned heads and quickly made waves across social media.

Known for his quiet demeanor and practical style, the three-time NBA MVP rarely draws attention for his fashion choices. But the unexpected costume was a timely metaphor — Denver was looking to shake things up after a brutal 149-106 loss in Game 2.

Nuggets interim head coach David Adelman hadn’t seen the look pregame and was amused when told. “Not that I remember,” Adelman said when asked if Jokić had ever made a fashion statement like this before. “But you should ask him that question. That’s pretty cool, though.”

While Jokić didn’t speak publicly about his Joker-inspired ensemble, the Nuggets responded with a much-needed win. Denver outlasted Oklahoma City 113-104 in overtime, reclaiming the series lead at 2-1. Despite a subpar shooting night from Jokić — who finished 8-for-25 from the field and 0-for-10 from three — his presence helped galvanize the team.

The win was more than just a bounce-back. It proved that the Nuggets, led by their MVP and now their resident comic book antihero, are still very much in control of their playoff destiny.