NBA superstar Nikola Jokic, fresh off his third MVP win, has once again found himself in the spotlight — but this time, not for his dazzling passes or dominant post moves. During his promotional tour in China, the Denver Nuggets center participated in an impromptu and light-hearted “race” against one of the world’s fastest trains: the Fuxing High-Speed Rail.
The moment, captured on video and quickly going viral across both Chinese and international social media platforms, shows Jokic jogging alongside the sleek, silver Fuxing train just as it prepares to leave the platform. Fans nearby can be heard cheering, laughing, and shouting his name as the Serbian big man playfully tries to “keep up” with the machine that can reach speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph).
A Race No One Expected
The video, reportedly filmed at a major station in Beijing, starts with Jokic waving to fans and joking with security. Then, in a spur-of-the-moment decision, he begins jogging beside the Fuxing train as it slowly departs. Within seconds, the train accelerates — and the 6’11” center throws his hands up in mock surrender, drawing laughter and applause from bystanders.
“Well… I think the train won,” Jokic quipped afterward, grinning in an interview with local reporters. “I need longer legs next time.”
It was a wholesome, unexpected moment that showcased Jokic’s laid-back personality, a trait that has made him a fan favorite around the world. While many players carry a more intense demeanor during the offseason, Jokic is known for embracing fun, family, and the occasional horse race — and now, apparently, train races too.
Jokic’s Growing Popularity in China
Jokic’s visit is part of the NBA’s global initiative to expand its presence in Asia. The tour includes youth basketball clinics, charity events, media interviews, and appearances at Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) training facilities. His warm interactions with fans, including signing autographs and posing for selfies, have drawn large crowds wherever he goes.
“Nikola Jokic represents not just excellence on the court, but humility and authenticity off of it,” said Li Qiang, a basketball analyst for CCTV Sports. “That’s why Chinese fans love him.”
The Fuxing train “race” wasn’t even an official part of his itinerary — but it quickly became the most shared moment of his visit so far. Within hours, the clip had racked up millions of views on Weibo, Douyin (China’s TikTok), and international platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
Symbol of East Meets West
Some commentators have noted the symbolism of the video — a basketball icon from the West playfully interacting with one of China’s greatest technological achievements. The Fuxing trains are a point of national pride, representing China’s advancement in infrastructure and innovation.
“It was funny, but also kind of beautiful,” said one commenter on Weibo. “Jokic is strong and smart, but even he can’t outrun the speed of China’s future.”
This isn’t the first time a global athlete has interacted with the Fuxing line, but Jokic’s humble and humorous take stood out. In a time when international relations are often strained, light-hearted cultural moments like these help bridge divides.
What’s Next for the MVP?
With three MVP titles, a 2023 NBA championship ring, and a reputation as one of the greatest centers of his generation, Jokic continues to rise in global influence. His time in China has proven that basketball truly is a universal language, and his personal brand — relaxed, funny, and real — resonates far beyond the hardwood.
“This trip has been amazing,” Jokic said. “The people, the culture, the energy — I’m grateful for the love.”
Whether he’s orchestrating pick-and-rolls in Denver or pretending to race bullet trains in Beijing, Nikola Jokic remains one of the most beloved and unique figures in modern sports.
