Ivanka Trump had an amusing moment during the 2025 NBA All-Star Game when Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić playfully “disciplined” her son, Theodore. The former first daughter took to Instagram to share the lighthearted exchange, thanking Jokić for getting her son to “listen” during a courtside interaction.
The moment quickly went viral, drawing reactions from fans, celebrities, and the sports world alike. But what exactly happened, and why did it spark so much attention?
The Awkward Yet Hilarious Courtside Moment
Ivanka Trump, her husband Jared Kushner, and their children attended the highly anticipated NBA All-Star Game in San Francisco. The event, known for its celebrity-packed audience, featured some of the biggest names in basketball, including LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and, of course, Nikola Jokić.
During a courtside photo opportunity, Ivanka’s young son, Theodore, appeared distracted and reluctant to face the camera. Enter Jokić, the two-time NBA MVP, who casually reached over and turned Theodore’s head toward the camera to help him pose for the picture.
Ivanka, clearly amused by the moment, later posted the interaction on Instagram with the caption:
“Thank you Jokić for getting my son Theo to listen.”
Fans quickly reacted, with many finding the moment both wholesome and hilarious.
Nikola Jokić’s Reputation for Being a ‘Gentle Giant’
Nikola Jokić is widely known for his calm demeanor, humility, and lighthearted personality despite being one of the most dominant players in the NBA. The Serbian-born superstar has often displayed a playful side during games, interacting with fans, teammates, and even referees in a way that makes him a fan favorite.
His interaction with Ivanka Trump’s son fits right into his usual off-court persona—one that balances competitiveness with humor. Social media quickly flooded with comments praising Jokić’s fatherly instincts, with many jokingly suggesting that he could add “babysitter” to his impressive resume.
Social Media and Public Reactions
As expected, the internet had plenty to say about the interaction. Some of the best reactions included:
- “Nikola Jokić: MVP on the court, MVP dad figure off the court.”
- “Jokić out here parenting kids that aren’t even his. Legend.”
- “Ivanka Trump thanking Jokić for disciplining her kid is the last thing I expected to see today.”
- “Now that’s what I call Serbian discipline—Jokić making kids listen with one move.”
While most responses were lighthearted, some critics pointed out Ivanka’s continued presence in high-profile events despite her efforts to step back from politics.
The 2025 NBA All-Star Game: A New Format and Mixed Reviews
Beyond the viral moment, the 2025 NBA All-Star Game itself introduced a new four-team tournament format designed to boost competitiveness and engagement. While the game had its moments, reactions were mixed. Some fans appreciated the format, while others felt it lacked intensity compared to previous years.
Key highlights from the game included:
- Team Shaquille O’Neal winning the new-format tournament
- Stephen Curry earning MVP honors
- Surprise performances from rising NBA stars
Despite the varying opinions on the game itself, Ivanka Trump’s courtside moment with Jokić ended up being one of the event’s most talked-about incidents.
Conclusion
Ivanka Trump’s lighthearted thank-you message to Nikola Jokić may have been meant as a simple joke, but it quickly became one of the most viral moments from the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. The interaction highlighted Jokić’s playful personality while also adding an unexpected Trump family headline to the world of sports.
As the internet continues to buzz about the moment, one thing is clear—whether on the court or off, Nikola Jokić has a way of making an impact.
FAQs
1. What did Nikola Jokić do to Ivanka Trump’s son?
Jokić playfully turned Theodore’s head toward the camera to help him pose for a picture during the NBA All-Star Game.
2. How did Ivanka Trump react to the moment?
She found it amusing and posted about it on Instagram, thanking Jokić for making her son listen.
3. Why did this moment go viral?
Jokić’s reputation as a gentle giant, combined with Ivanka Trump’s public profile, made the interaction a social media sensation.
4. What was the reaction from NBA fans?
Most fans found it hilarious and praised Jokić for his parenting instincts, while some joked about the unexpected crossover between politics and basketball.
5. How did the 2025 NBA All-Star Game turn out?
It featured a new four-team tournament format, with Team Shaquille O’Neal emerging as the winner. The game received mixed reviews from fans.
