Denver’s Nikola Jokic put together a masterful 40-point performance, capping it off with a crucial 7-foot shot late in overtime, as the Nuggets defeated San Antonio 136-134 on Saturday night, bringing the Spurs’ remarkable 11-game winning streak to an end.
The Serbian center dominated the extra period with seven points to help Denver secure its eighth consecutive victory, despite an outstanding effort from San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama. The young French star delivered 34 points and pulled down 18 rebounds while converting an impressive 16 of 17 free throw attempts.
Supporting Jokic’s stellar night, Christian Braun contributed 21 points for the Nuggets. Jamal Murray recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists, while Cam Johnson added 17 points to the winning effort. Aaron Gordon chipped in 15 points and Tim Hardaway Jr. provided 10 points for Denver, which trailed by six points with just 1:39 remaining in regulation before mounting their comeback.
San Antonio received strong contributions across their roster, with Stephon Castle leading the way with 20 points. Devin Vassell and Julian Champagnie each scored 18 points, while De’Aaron Fox added 14 points to the effort. Dylan Harper contributed 12 points and Keldon Johnson scored 10 for the Spurs, who entered the contest having won 27 of their previous 29 games.
In other NBA action, Detroit secured the Eastern Conference’s top seed with a decisive 116-93 road victory over Philadelphia. Tobias Harris led the Pistons with 19 points, while Daniss Jenkins recorded 16 points and 14 assists in the win.
The victory gives Detroit home-court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs for the first time since 2007. The Pistons have maintained their strong play despite star guard Cade Cunningham being sidelined with a collapsed lung, posting an 8-2 record during his absence.
Philadelphia struggled offensively in the second half, managing just 33 points after halftime while shooting 34.2% from the field. Tyrese Maxey scored 23 points and Paul George added 20 for the 76ers, who played without Joel Embiid on the second night of back-to-back games.
Miami dominated Washington 152-136 in another high-scoring affair, led by Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s season-best 32 points. Kel’el Ware had a standout performance with 24 points, 19 rebounds, and seven blocks for the Heat.
The Heat controlled the game early, building leads as large as 35 points in the second quarter before resting their starters. The victory marked Miami’s third 150-point game in franchise history.
Washington continued their struggles, losing their 21st game in the last 22 contests. Will Riley provided a bright spot with 31 points on efficient 12-of-17 shooting, while Sharife Cooper scored 20 points and Jaden Hardy added 19 for the Wizards.
