After a disappointing end to his 2023-24 NBA campaign, Nikola Jokic is flying high once again.

The Denver Nuggets center was spotted in Abu Dhabi, meeting two falcons which were described as “lifelong fans.”

Of note, the Nuggets will return to Abu Dhabi this fall, facing the defending NBA Champion Boston Celtics for two preseason games two preseason games on Friday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 6 in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates.

Jokic, who is typically known for spending time with horses in the offseason, seems to have taken on falconry as part of an initiative to promote the fall preseason games with Visit Abu Dhabi.

According to the tourism organization, falconry has been an important sport in the region for thousands of years. Falconry demands patience and collaboration between the falconer and the bird. By treating the bird with care and empathy, the falconer earns its trust and obedience. Over the years, Emirati falconers have developed unique breeding and training techniques.

Could this be the next career opportunity for Jokic when he retires from basketball? Or could it simply be that Joker was looking deep into that falcon’s eyes to see if it can replace the horse-shaped hole in his heart?