Nikola Jokic scored a game-high 40 points as the Denver Nuggets defeated the San Antonio Spurs 136-134 in overtime. Jokic also contributed 13 assists, eight rebounds and three blocks. His performance helped Denver extend their winning run to eight straight victories.
Jokic’s ‘Sombor Shuffle’ Seals the Win
With the Nuggets leading by two points in the final minute of overtime, Jokic backed down Victor Wembanyama and unleashed his signature “Sombor Shuffle” for an 11-foot step-back jumper. Wembanyama was left looking flabbergasted. Jokic also hit a floater with 9.8 seconds remaining in overtime.
Spurs coach Mitch Johnson acknowledged Jokic’s ability to exploit any mistake. He stated that Jokic has all the tricks, counters, and skills to make you pay.
Wembanyama’s Impressive Performance in Defeat
Victor Wembanyama led San Antonio with 34 points, 18 rebounds, seven assists and five blocks. He became the first Spurs player to score at least 30 points with 15 rebounds in three consecutive games. Wembanyama is also the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in his 1999-2000 MVP season to tally three consecutive games with at least 30 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks.
Wembanyama described the game as amazing and very fun, saying it had a little bit of playoff vibes. He recognised the test against a team playing for something right now.
Key Stats from the Game
- Jokic recorded his third-career outing with at least 40 points, 10 assists and three blocks.
- It was Jokic’s seventh career game with at least 30 points and 10 assists with zero turnovers.
- Wembanyama is the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in his 1999-2000 MVP season to tally three consecutive games with at least 30 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks.
The sellout crowd of 20,039 at Ball Arena witnessed Jokic and Wembanyama, two of the top candidates for this season’s NBA MVP award. The Spurs led 107-96 with 9:08 left before the Nuggets’ 17-8 run, which was capped by Jokic’s jumper.