The NBA Draft is always full of surprises, but this year, a Serbian teenager is quietly capturing the attention of scouts and fans alike. Bogoljub Markovic, a 6’11” forward with a versatile skill set, is drawing comparisons to Nikola Jokic—yet some insiders believe his ceiling could be even higher. Is Markovic the next big Balkan breakout, or is the hype outpacing reality?
Bogoljub Markovic: Serbia’s Next Big Thing?
Markovic’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Playing for Mega Superbet, the same club that helped launch Jokic’s career, Markovic averaged 13.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists this season, earning the prestigious AdmiralBet ABA League Top Prospect award.
Notably, he dominated the voting, winning over head coaches, journalists, and fans—a rare feat that underscores his growing reputation.
Bogoljub Markovic showed his versatility and skill-level in a tough road game against Euroleague squad Partizan Belgrade. Maybe last game we’ll see him in a Mega uniform due a sprained ankle he suffered. 7-foot Serbian won the Adriatic League’s best young player award. pic.twitter.com/rEW25uamhf
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 13, 2025
What sets Markovic apart is his modern, multi-dimensional game. He’s not just a traditional big man; he thrives on the perimeter, shooting over 41% from three and nearly 77% from the free-throw line.
As one scouting report puts it, “Markovic blends size, mobility, skill and versatility that scouts dream when describing modern mold of a power forward”. His ability to handle the ball, attack closeouts, and finish as a roll man makes him a matchup headache for defenders.
Markovic’s development has also benefited from Mega’s nurturing environment. “The team Mega and all the people that are working with me and my coach always give me confidence. So that’s all I ask, I mean all you can get,” Markovic told HoopsHype, highlighting the support system that’s helped him flourish at such a young age.
From Hoop Summit to NBA Hype: Can Markovic Match Jokic’s Rise?
Markovic’s breakout performance at the 2025 Nike Hoop Summit cemented his status as a legitimate NBA prospect. He posted 16 points and 10 rebounds on 6-of-7 shooting, impressing coaches and scouts with his poise and shooting touch against top American talent.
“Bogi was a joy to coach all week at the @nikehoopsummit. This interview really gives you a sense into the confident, competent player that he is,” said respected coach Marshall Cho.
Bogi was a joy to coach all week at the @nikehoopsummit. This interview really gives you a sense into the confident, competent player that he is. https://t.co/Ftmvvpltoy
— Marshall Cho 조정호 (@CoachCho) May 1, 2025
Even though Markovic is really skilled on offense, there are still some questions about how ready he is for the NBA. He’s a pretty active defender and isn’t afraid to get physical, but a few scouts worry that his slim build and average wingspan might hold him back on defense.
That said, he’s been super productive and efficient, and he already has experience playing for Serbia’s senior national team at just 19. All of those points point to a solid foundation and some exciting potential for the future.
Markovic himself isn’t shying away from the spotlight. When asked about his rapid ascent, he quipped, “Yeah, I don’t know, I guess I’m just too good,” before crediting his club and faith for his development.
Whether he can truly be “better than Jokic at 19” will depend on how he adapts to the NBA’s physicality and speed.
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Markovic isn’t just some under-the-radar pick—he’s the real deal, with the talent and attitude to make a difference right away. With the draft coming up, the big question isn’t just if he’ll be the next Jokic, but whether he could end up making an even bigger name for himself.
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