During the NBA’s 2020 return to the Orlando bubble, several of the league’s top foreign stars found themselves socialising and spending time together in the cramped space. Players from Eastern Europe, including Luka Doncic, Goran Dragic, Nikola Jokic, Boban Marjanovic, Nikola Vucevic, and Jusuf Nurkic, built strong friendships and camaraderie off the court.NBA players Luka Doncic, Goran Dragic, Nikola Jokic, Boban Marjanovic, Nikola Vucevic, and Jusuf Nurkic hang out together in the bubble.  r/Balkans

Despite the isolating nature of the bubble and the heavy emphasis on basketball, these players worked hard to connect with one another and foster a sense of community. They would frequently be seen dining together, playing cards and video games, and having spirited talks in their respective languages. This common cultural experience helped to alleviate some of the tensions and monotony of being confined inside the bubble for long periods of time.

Doncic, the young Slovenian prodigy, was very effective at pulling this bunch together. He would organise team outings and gaming nights to make sure his fellow Eastern European talents felt included and supported. Dragic, the senior Slovenian guard, was also instrumental in developing these ties, utilising his experience and expertise to mentor the younger players.NBA Players Luka Doncic, Goran Dragic, Nikola Jokic, and Boban 59% OFF

Jokic, Serbia’s reigning MVP, played a prominent role in these social gatherings. He was known for his easygoing and friendly nature, and he was frequently the centre of the party, engaging in humorous banter and sharing anecdotes from his home country. Marjanovic, the towering Serbian centre, also joined in on the fun, utilising his larger-than-life presence to foster friendship and laughing.Goran Dragic does not know if Jokic is a member of the NBA league | Sports | Košarka

Vucevic, Montenegro’s All-Star centre, and Nurkic, Bosnian centre, sought solace in the company of their Eastern European colleagues. They would play hard pickup games, challenging one another to show off their skills while also taking time to relax and enjoy each other’s company away from the court.

The friendship formed by these athletes during the bubble experience demonstrated the power of shared cultural identity and sports’ ability to bring people together, even in the most isolating conditions. The memories and contacts they acquired during that period would definitely influence their relationships and careers long after the bubble had burst.