- Led by Murray and Porter, the Nuggets take a 2-1 series lead after a strong overtime win against the Thunder in Game 3.
- Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. lead the scoring while Nikola Jokic adds rebounds and leadership despite shooting struggles.
- Denver’s defense shines in overtime as they shut down Oklahoma City and bounce back from a 43-point loss in Game 2.
The Denver Nuggets bounced back with a huge win in Game 3. They defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 113-104 in overtime on Friday night. This win gave the Nuggets a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference semifinal series. After a blowout loss in Game 2, Denver came out with energy, focus, and a clear plan. They stayed close during regulation and took control in overtime. Now, the defending champs have momentum going into Game 4 on Sunday.
Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Lead the Way
Jamal Murray played a key role in the win. He scored 27 points and looked sharp from start to finish. Michael Porter Jr. also stepped up when his team needed him most. He scored 21 points and made clutch shots in big moments. Porter had struggled in the first two games but found his rhythm back in Denver. He hit his first five shots, including three from beyond the arc. His strong start kept the Nuggets in the game during the first half and gave them confidence.
Nikola Jokic Misses Shots but Still Dominates the Floor
Nikola Jokic had a rough shooting night. He missed 17 shots and went 0-for-10 from the three-point line. But he still found ways to help his team. He scored 20 points and grabbed 16 rebounds. When the game went to overtime, Jokic set the tone right away. He drove to the basket and made a smooth layup to put the Nuggets ahead. After that, Denver controlled the rest of the period. Jokic showed why he’s still one of the best players in the league, even on an off night.
Aaron Gordon and Denver’s Defense Seal the Win
Aaron Gordon added 22 points and gave the team great energy. He battled hard inside and made tough baskets. In overtime, the Nuggets outscored the Thunder 11-2. Denver’s defense locked in and didn’t allow easy shots. The team made smart plays, grabbed key rebounds, and closed out the game strong. They didn’t let the Thunder score freely, and their hustle made a big difference.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Struggles in Tough Game 3
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a hard time getting into a rhythm. He shot just 7 for 22 from the field and only made 1 of 6 from deep. He finished with 18 points but never looked comfortable. Jalen Williams stepped up for the Thunder and scored 32 points. Chet Holmgren also helped with 18 points and seven rebounds. But it wasn’t enough to stop Denver, especially in the extra period.
Late-Game Drama Sends Game to Overtime
With the game tied at 102 in the final seconds, both teams had chances to win. Gilgeous-Alexander missed a short jumper with three seconds left. Jokic then had a shot at the buzzer but couldn’t connect from 19 feet. The game went into overtime, and that’s where the Nuggets took over. They showed more poise and made every possession count. Their experience helped them stay calm and take control when it mattered most.
Nuggets Stay Focused After Game 2 Blowout
Game 2 was a disaster for Denver. The Thunder crushed them by 43 points. But the Nuggets didn’t panic. They used that loss as motivation. In Game 3, they stayed close all night and waited for their moment. The third quarter had some bad luck, with back-to-back goaltending calls on Jokic and Gordon. But they kept their heads up. They knew if they stayed close, they could finish strong. That plan worked.
Game 4 Set for Sunday Night at Ball Arena
Game 4 takes place Sunday in Denver. The Nuggets now hold a 2-1 lead and have the home crowd behind them. They know the Thunder will come out strong, so they need to keep the pressure on. With Murray, Porter, and Jokic leading the way, Denver looks ready. If they keep playing with energy and focus, they can take full control of the series.
Jokic Shows His Playful Side Before the Game
Before tipoff, Nikola Jokic gave fans a laugh. He showed up dressed as the Joker from DC Comics. Last year, he wore a Gru costume from Despicable Me. This time, he leaned into his nickname and played the villain role off the court. The fans loved it. But once the game started, Jokic turned serious and helped lead his team to a huge win.
