Denver Nuggets beat San Antonio Spurs as Nikola Jokic stars in overtime
Nikola Jokic delivered a masterful 40-point performance to lead the Denver Nuggets to a thrilling 136-134 overtime victory against the San Antonio Spurs.
The three-time NBA MVP outdueled rising star Victor Wembanyama in a captivating clash at Ball Arena.
Denver’s hard-fought triumph extended their current winning streak to eight consecutive games.
The dramatic result also snapped a formidable 11-game unbeaten run previously held by the visitors.
Clash of the MVP contenders
Jokic showcased his credentials with 13 assists, eight rebounds, and three blocks without committing a single turnover.
The Serbian centre sealed the victory in the final minute of overtime with two crucial baskets over his 7ft 5in opponent.
One of those decisive scores was his signature ‘Sombor Shuffle’ step-back jumper.
“He has all the tricks, the counters and the skills to make you pay.”
That was the assessment of Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, who praised the opposition star’s ruthless efficiency.
Wembanyama matches Shaquille O’Neal record
Despite the narrow defeat, the 22-year-old French prodigy produced historic individual numbers.
Wembanyama registered 34 points, 18 rebounds, seven assists, and five blocks during the gruelling contest.
He becomes the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in his 1999-2000 MVP campaign to record three consecutive games with at least 30 points, 15 rebounds, and three blocks.
“It was a real test against a team that’s playing for something right now.”
Wembanyama admitted the intense matchup carried a distinct playoff atmosphere against the man he labelled the best offensive player in the world.
A night of historic landmarks
The sold-out Colorado crowd witnessed Jokic record his third career game with at least 40 points, 10 assists, and three blocks.
Only Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade has achieved that specific statistical milestone more often since blocks were first officially tracked.
Nuggets coach David Adelman summarised the phenomenal entertainment value of the heavyweight showdown.
“I would pay to watch these two teams play.”