On Friday night, Denver Nuggets‘ Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook made NBA history. The dynamic duo became the first teammates to score triple-doubles in the same game, twice, in a single season.
Jokic shines with stellar performance
Jokic delivered an amazing performance, scoring 35 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and dishing out 15 assists. This marked his NBA-leading 15th triple-double of the season. His play helped the Nuggets dominate the Brooklyn Nets, securing a 124-105 win. Meanwhile, Westbrook didn’t fall behind, contributing 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.
“This is all about our style of play,” Jokic said. “The wins are what matter. Stats come second. Our relationship on the court is special. We move the ball well, and guys know where to be.”
A rare achievement: 25-point triple-doubles together
The two became the first pair of teammates in NBA history to both record a 25-point triple-double in the same regular-season game. This is a rare accomplishment that caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Nuggets’ coach Michael Malone was thrilled, exclaiming, “Wow! That’s crazy. We’re witnessing history, folks.”
The duo’s previous historic moment
The pair first achieved this feat just a few weeks ago, on December 30, against the Utah Jazz. Jokic’s performance that night was nothing short of spectacular: 36 points, 22 rebounds, and 11 assists. Westbrook also made his mark, adding 16 points to his triple-double tally.
In that game, Westbrook was flawless. He didn’t miss any of his seven shooting attempts and completed both free throws without a turnover. Reflecting on his performance, Westbrook praised the support he gets from Coach Malone. “That freedom helps me elevate my teammates,” Westbrook said. “My goal is to bring leadership, energy, and toughness. We’re starting to hit our stride.”
Jokic returns after illness
After missing two games due to illness, Jokic returned to action against the Nets, and the Nuggets were ready to roll. He was on fire, but a late third-quarter injury almost cut his night short. Jokic had already put up impressive numbers, just one rebound shy of his 145th career triple-double, and the Nuggets were up by 18 points. But when the Nets began to close the gap, Jokic reentered the game. He scored nine points, handed out four assists, and grabbed three rebounds in the final quarter, pushing Denver across the finish line.
Westbrook makes history with 202nd career triple-double
Jokic reached his 10th rebound with 6:51 left in the game, thanks to a timely block from Westbrook on Keon Johnson. Westbrook’s contributions didn’t stop there. His four assists in the fourth quarter helped him secure his 202nd career triple-double, setting a new NBA record.
Westbrook’s first triple-double as a nugget
This was Westbrook’s third triple-double of the season and his first as a Nugget. The former Laker and Clipper joined Denver in the offseason and has quickly become a key player for the team. His chemistry with Jokic is undeniable, and they’re proving to be a force to be reckoned with.
With Jokic and Westbrook’s remarkable performances, the Nuggets have solidified their place as one of the most exciting teams to watch this season. This historic game is just one chapter in what promises to be an unforgettable season for the duo.
