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NBA star Nikola Jokić has often been compared to Despicable Me's Gru for their striking resemblance.
This time, the Denver Nuggets center is capitalizing on the jokes with a hilarious new trailer for the fourth installment of the popular animated movie.
The 30-second advert starts with Jokić in his therapist's office, sharing his experiences of being told he looks like the infamous villain.
"I thought I looked really good that day. I put on this beautiful suit, they said I'm in business," Jokić tells her.
https://t.co/XOs3tz48pkpic.twitter.com/Pg4s1R41vB
— Despicable Me 4 (@Minions) April 21, 2024
When asked by his therapist about why it bothers him, the basketball player tells her he isn't bothered whenever fans draw this comparison. Instead, it bothers him that "they won't leave him alone."
Jokić then stands up and unrolls the blinds to reveal dozens of Gru's minions waiting for him outside the room.
"Guys, I'm not your boss!" he shouts, as the spot ends with the movie's logo.
Jokić Dresses Up as Gru in Playoffs Game
Doubling down on the comparisons, as well as the promotions, Jokić arrived at Game One of the Denver Nuggets' playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers wearing a full-Gru fit, complete with a black jacket and a striped scarf.
Fans of both the NBA player and the Illumination film franchise have positively reacted to the unexpected marketing stunt, with the Denver Nuggets account itself referencing Gru's silly antics in a now-viral post.
Going to play basketball or going to steal the moon? pic.twitter.com/AeGmprCMhX
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) April 20, 2024
Jokic expressed his affection for both the individual and the animated franchise, suggesting that adding a touch of amusement to the situation would be fitting.
"I mean, I love the guy and I love the cartoon, and why not just have a little bit of fun, too?" Jokic said after leading the Nuggets to victory.
"Despicable Me 4" hits theaters on July 3.
Editing by Katherine 'Makkie' Maclang
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