Ivica Zubac may not always make headlines with flashy dunks or viral highlights, but his quiet consistency, emotional maturity, and grounded personal life make him a standout figure in today’s NBA
His tribute to his wife Kristina reminds fans that behind every successful athlete is a network of support and love.
As he prepares for one of the biggest games of his career, Zubac carries with him the strength of his personal foundation, the pride of his heritage, and the momentum of a breakout season.
Whether or not the Clippers advance, Zubac’s impact—on and off the court—is undeniable.
In a world where celebrity relationships often make headlines for all the wrong reasons, Ivica Zubac and Kristina Prisc’s relationship stands out for its quiet strength and mutual respect.
Their story isn’t about flashy moments or public displays of affection—it’s about loyalty, shared dreams, and the kind of everyday support that makes an extraordinary life possible.
Zubac’s career has been one of steady growth and discipline, and it’s clear that his wife’s presence has played a critical role in his journey.
Also Read: Kristina Prišč, Ivica Zubac’s Enigmatic Wife Revealed
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Ivica Zubac’s Heartfelt Birthday Tribute to His Wife Captures Hearts
LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac recently took to Instagram to share a deeply personal and loving message dedicated to his wife, Kristina Prisc, as they celebrated her birthday.1
Posting a photo of the two of them together, Zubac wrote in his native Croatian:
“Sretan rođendan Ijubavi ♥️,”
which translates to “Happy Birthday, my love.”
The post quickly gained attention from fans and fellow players, who admired the NBA star’s public show of affection.
In an age where athletes often maintain a stoic public image, Zubac’s message stood out for its sincerity and emotional warmth.
Love Story of Ivica Zubac and Kristina Prisc
Ivica Zubac and Kristina Prisc have shared their journey together for several years, culminating in marriage on August 24, 2021.
Kristina, a Croatian model, has been a supportive presence throughout Zubac’s rise in the NBA. The couple frequently posts snippets of their life together, giving fans a glimpse into their strong bond.
Kristina, with her grace and poise, has amassed her own following on social media. While Zubac dominates on the court, she has found her spotlight in the world of fashion and modeling.
Their relationship is a blend of glamour and grounded affection, resonating with fans of both basketball and lifestyle content.
With Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets looming, the Clippers are preparing for a high-stakes matchup.
The game will be played at Ball Arena in Denver, giving the Nuggets home-court advantage. For the Clippers to pull off the upset and advance, Zubac will be pivotal.
Ivica Zubac’s Journey: From Bosnia to the NBA
Born in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zubac’s path to the NBA has been one of perseverance and dedication.2
He played professionally in Europe before being drafted in the second round (32nd overall) of the 2016 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.
After a couple of seasons with the Lakers, Zubac was traded to the Clippers, where he gradually earned a bigger role.
Known for his strong work ethic, quiet demeanor, and team-first mentality, Zubac has become one of the most respected players on the roster.
His journey is a testament to the value of hard work and steady development—proving that not every NBA star bursts onto the scene immediately.
A Career-Best Season for Zubac
As Zubac celebrated his wife’s birthday off the court, on the hardwood he’s been putting together the best season of his NBA career.
The 7-foot center played in 80 games, averaging 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. All of these statistics marked career highs for the 27-year-old big man.
Zubac has long been known for his defensive presence and rebounding skills, but this year he took a massive leap offensively. With improved footwork, finishing, and confidence, he’s become a more reliable scoring option for the Clippers.
His chemistry with teammates—especially guards like James Harden and Russell Westbrook—has led to easy buckets and more touches in the paint.
Never in doubt 🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷🇭🇷
— Ivica Zubac (@ivicazubac) December 9, 2022
Dominating the Playoffs
Zubac’s playoff performance has further solidified his importance to the Clippers’ roster. Through the first six games of the postseason, he has averaged 18.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, showing that his regular season wasn’t a fluke.
In Game 6, which took place on the same day as his wife’s birthday, Zubac delivered another solid performance with 10 points, six rebounds, and three blocks.
More impressively, he was highly efficient, shooting 5-for-6 from the field. His inside presence was a critical component in the Clippers’ 111-105 victory.
With stars like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell combining for 79 points, Zubac’s role may not always be flashy, but it is undoubtedly essential.
The Power of Personal Life Support
Athletes often speak about how their personal lives impact their performance on the court. For Zubac, having Kristina by his side appears to be a grounding and motivating force.
Their shared Croatian heritage, cultural background, and mutual understanding have likely created a strong emotional foundation.
His heartfelt birthday message was more than just a romantic gesture—it was a window into the life of a player who values loyalty, love, and emotional connection. That balance off the court can often translate into better focus and performance on it.
Ivica Zubac: Fan Reactions and Social Media Praise
Zubac’s birthday message for his wife quickly gained traction on social media, with fans and fellow players commenting with hearts, birthday wishes, and messages of support.3
In an era where every moment is shared and scrutinized online, Zubac’s post felt refreshingly authentic.
Fans especially appreciated the fact that he posted in his native language, highlighting his cultural pride and personal identity.
It served as a reminder that beyond the stats and highlights, players are also humans with families, emotions, and relationships that matter deeply.
What’s Next for Zubac and the Clippers?
- Beyond the intensity of the upcoming Game 7, the Clippers face an offseason that may bring change depending on how far they go in the playoffs. Key decisions will be made regarding contracts, team chemistry, and long-term goals.
- However, one thing that seems certain is that Zubac has earned his place as a core piece of the Clippers’ future.
- His continued development as a two-way center makes him a valuable asset in a league where size and skill are always in demand.
- If he can continue to produce at his current level, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him receive more national attention, potentially even contending for an All-Star spot in coming seasons.
- Matching up against Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA MVP, is no easy task. Jokic brings an elite offensive arsenal with passing, scoring, and rebounding capabilities.
- Zubac’s role will be to contain Jokic as much as possible, protect the paint, and contribute offensively when opportunities arise.
- Given his current form and growing confidence, the Clippers are relying on Zubac to anchor their defense and be a physical force inside.
Also Read: Tyronn Lue (NBA): $70 million Contract Extension For The 2024-25 Season and More
Ivica Zubac: The Move to Belgrade
A Crucial Step Together
After the couple began dating, Zubac signed a deal with Serbian basketball club Mega Leks, which required him to move to Belgrade. For many young relationships, such a move might have posed a challenge.
But for Kristina and Ivica, it was an opportunity to grow stronger together. Prisc made the decision to move with him, showcasing early on the depth of her commitment to Zubac and his ambitions.
The Belgrade chapter wasn’t just about basketball for Zubac—it was also about building a stable personal life in a new city.
Off the court, Kristina took on the role of emotional supporter, helping Zubac focus on his game while navigating the challenges of a foreign culture, language, and professional expectations. Her presence made a significant difference, allowing Zubac to focus on developing his craft.
Ivica Zubac: Collaboration
Ivica Zubac excitedly announced his collaboration with Kaiser Permanente and share the place where he spend most of his time to stay fit for the season.
View this post on Instagram
The NBA Dream Becomes Reality
Zubac’s performance in Europe quickly drew the attention of NBA scouts. In 2016, the Los Angeles Lakers selected him as the 32nd overall pick in the NBA Draft.
For Zubac, it was a dream come true—but with it came the daunting task of relocating to the United States, a massive shift from anything he had previously known.
Kristina didn’t hesitate. She moved with Zubac to Los Angeles, once again proving her unwavering support. In interviews, Zubac has consistently credited her with helping him handle the many demands of life in the NBA.
In a 2017 interview with the Los Angeles Times, Zubac opened up about how important Kristina has been throughout his journey:
“She helps me with everything. I can’t imagine how would I do it without her. … I would be good, but it would be much harder. I’m really thankful because she’s here. I hope she’s not gonna leave me here.”
These heartfelt words reflect the gratitude and emotional reliance Zubac places on his wife. She has been more than a bystander in his rise to success—she’s been a constant presence through all of life’s changes.
Ivica Zubac: Adjusting to Life in Los Angeles
Relocating to Los Angeles came with its own set of challenges. From language barriers to a new culture, and the intense media scrutiny that comes with playing in the NBA, Zubac had a lot to deal with.
Fortunately, Kristina was there to help navigate it all. She helped him adapt not just to the professional demands, but also to the lifestyle changes.
From helping set up their home to managing the details of day-to-day life, Prisc provided Zubac with a stable, nurturing environment off the court. This emotional security allowed him to focus on his growth as an athlete.
While the spotlight often shines on NBA players, the emotional labor and sacrifices of their partners often go unnoticed—something that certainly applies in Kristina’s case.
A Steady Climb with the Clippers
Zubac’s journey didn’t end with the Lakers. In 2019, he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, a move that brought fresh opportunities and challenges.
Once again, Kristina was right by his side. Zubac’s game continued to evolve, and he grew into a reliable center for the Clippers—earning recognition for his rebounding, shot-blocking, and overall defensive presence.
Throughout the years, Prisc has remained a constant source of encouragement. Whether it’s cheering from the stands, supporting him at home after tough losses, or helping him maintain a balanced life, she has played a key role in his continued development.
Now, in 2025, Zubac is 28 years old and entering the prime of his career. The Clippers are competing in the Western Conference playoffs, and Zubac is an integral part of their frontcourt.
He’s currently on a three-year, $58.6 million contract—a testament to his value in the league and his steady progression as a professional athlete.
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