Team World's Jokic on Rising Stars Challenge: 'We're gonna kick their ass'

Denver Nuggets breakout center Nikola Jokic is geared up for the Rising Stars Challenge on All-Star Friday night.

The Serbian-born Jokic will represent Team World in the game, which pits international rookies and sophomores against those from the United States.

Jokic headlines a talented World group that includes second-year phenom Kristaps Porzingis but has lost would-be key contributors in Joel Embiid and Emmanuel Mudiay to injuries. Despite being shorthanded, Jokic is confident his side will get the job done against a U.S. team that will boast the likes of Karl-Anthony Towns, Myles Turner, and D'Angelo Russell.

"We're gonna kick their ass," Jokic told NBA TV's Rick Fox, when asked for his prediction for the game.

The 21-year-old sophomore, who's averaging 16.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game this season, will also participate in the Skills Challenge on All-Star Saturday.