Denver Nuggets goes to top position in Western Conference after winning against San Antonio Spurs

On Tuesday night, Denver Nuggets won against San Antonio Spurs by 110-105 as Nikola Jokic scored 42 points and outclassed the Rookie of the Year award-winning favourite Victor Wembanyama. Nikola Jokic scored 16 rebounds and six assists while Victor Wembanyama scored 23 points, 15 rebounds eight assists and nine blocks. 

According to AP News, “He had like 600 blocks tonight, but we got the win,” Jokic said after Denver leap-frogged Oklahoma City atop the Western Conference playoff race.

The Spurs started the half on a 14-4 run, but Denver Nuggets responded with a 21-8 run. The Nuggets' backups came in at the start of the fourth quarter and maintained the pace with an 11-2 run to make it an 11-point game. However, the Spurs refused to give up and went on a 15-6 run, amazingly tying the game. 

As the scores were tied at 103-103 Nikola Jokic hook shot broke the tie. In the last minute, Victor Wembanyama again scored to equal the score. With 28 seconds left in the game, Michael Porter Jr. scored 15 points and his career-best 16 rebounds to put Denver Nuggets in lead 108-105. With just 18 seconds left in the game, Victor Wembanyama missed a 3-pointer. In the last 10 seconds remaining Victor Wembanyama fouled Jokic.

Gregg Popovich coach of San Antonio Spurs expressed that could not be happier with how Wembanyama guided his squad to a close victory over the defending NBA champions while missing numerous injured stars.

“That’s one of the most competitive games I have been part of for many years,” Popovich said. “For 48 minutes, under difficult circumstances, these guys just played ... the effort for 48 was really impressive, the best I’ve seen all year. And like I said (for) several years, losing sucks, but to see how far they have come this season is a joy.” (Source: AP News).