Jusuf Nurkić is a professional basketball player who is the starting center for the Phoenix Suns. Hailing from Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nurkic’s professional basketball journey began under the mentorship of Bosnian sports agent Enes Trnovčević at age 14. Nurkić's immense potential led him to join Croatian club Cedevita Zagreb in 2012. His amazing performances meant that he was selected as the 16th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in the 2014 NBA Draft, but the Bulls traded Nurkic to the Denver Nuggets on draft night.
With the Nuggets, Nurkić developed into a promising center but faced stiff competition from fellow European star young star Nikola Jokić, who eventually got the starting role. In 2017, Nurkić was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he truly emerged as a formidable starting center. During the 2017-18 season, Nurkić averaged 14.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. His all-around skill set was truly on full display in a historic 2019 game against the Sacramento Kings, where he recorded 24 points, 23 rebounds, seven assists, five blocks, and five steals — The first stat line in NBA history featuring 20+ points, 20+ rebounds, and 5+ in assists, blocks, and steals. In 2023, Nurkić joined the Suns as part of a high-profile trade involving Damian Lillard. He quickly made an impact, setting a new franchise record with 31 rebounds in a March 2024 game against the Thunder.
What is Jusuf Nurkic's jersey number?
Jusuf Nurkic's jersey numbers in the NBA, Europe and FIBA competitions are as follows:
Jusuf Nurkic's Jersey Number in the NBA
As of October 2024, Nurkic wears jersey number 20 for the Phoenix Suns. Throughout his NBA career, Jusuf Nurkic has worn three different jersey numbers. From 2014 to 2017, Nurkic played for the Denver Nuggets and wore the #23 jersey during this time.
After being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, Nurkic switched to #27, a number he wore for seven seasons in Portland. In 2023, Nurkic was traded to the Phoenix Suns, where he began wearing the #20 jersey.
European Club Jersey Numbers
Before entering the NBA Draft in 2014, Nurkic played in Europe for Croatian clubs Cedevita (2012–2014) and Zadar (2013 on loan). During his time with both teams, he wore the #23 jersey.
FIBA Competitions with Bosnia and Herzegovina
In FIBA international competitions representing his national team, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nurkic has consistently worn the #0 jersey. It is a number he has sported across numerous FIBA tournaments.
FAQs on Jusuf Nurkic Jersey Number
A. Jusuf Nurkic is on a four-year $70,000,000 contract with the Phoenix Suns. Nurkic will be an unrestricted free agent in the 2026 NBA offseason.
A. Jusuf Nurkic is 30 years old as of November 2024. He was born on August 23, 1994.
A. Emina Duric is the wife of NBA star Jusuf Nurkic.
A. Jusuf Nurkic is exactly 7 feet tall.
A. Jusuf Nurkic plays as a center.
