Jokic Sets OT Record, Adding Another Achievement to His Legacy
Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets made history during an overtime thriller against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night, scoring an unprecedented 18 points in the overtime period. The 142-138 victory marked a significant milestone for Jokić, who ended the game with an incredible 56 points, 16 rebounds, and 15 assists, achieving his 179th career triple-double.
Historic Performance and Record-Breaking Achievement
In doing so, Jokić set a new NBA record for the most points scored in an overtime by eclipsing Stephen Curry’s previous record of 17 points. His performance came at a crucial time for the short-handed Nuggets, who were missing three key players.
Key Game Highlights
- Game Date: Thursday night
- Final Score: Nuggets 142, Timberwolves 138
- Jokić’s Overtime Points: 18
- Previous Record: 17 points by Stephen Curry in 2016
- Career Milestone: 179th triple-double
The match witnessed a remarkable finish. Anthony Edwards, who had an outstanding performance with 44 points, sent the game into overtime with a last-second three-pointer. However, the overtime showed a different narrative as Jokić took over the scoring, leading the Nuggets to a significant comeback.
Nuggets’ Comeback Efforts
At one point, the Timberwolves seemed in control, holding a nine-point lead in overtime. However, Jokić ignited a surge that would see the Nuggets beam up their score to a record-setting 27 points in the overtime. This was spearheaded by a critical three-pointer by Jokić himself.
Player Stats and Contributions
- Nikola Jokić: 56 points, 16 rebounds, 15 assists, 15/21 shooting
- Jamal Murray: 35 points, significant contributions in overtime
- Anthony Edwards: 44 points, ejected in overtime
Murray, who had previously scored a career-high with a plethora of three-pointers, noted the defensive focus on Jokić allowed him to find open looks, enabling a memorable game for both players. The strategic plays executed by the Nuggets’ coach, David Adelman, further complemented Jokić’s dominance on the court.
Conclusion: A Game for the Ages
This game will undoubtedly be remembered, symbolizing both Jokić’s exceptional talent and the resilience of the Nuggets amid adversity. Adelman’s reflection that the game would be cherished in the future highlights its significance in NBA history. With Jokić leading the way, the Nuggets continue to position themselves as a formidable force in the league.
