SAN ANTONIO — Nikola Jokic delivered an impressive performance with 46 points and 10 rebounds, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 122-111 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in overtime. This outcome spoiled the celebration of Victor Wembanyama’s 21st birthday, despite Wembanyama managing to record 20 points and a remarkable 23 rebounds for the Spurs. However, he struggled in overtime, finishing without points or rebounds during that crucial period. Over his initial 101 games in the league, Wembanyama has now accumulated 57 double-doubles.
The matchup was a continuation of a back-to-back series between the two teams, with the Spurs having outlasted the Nuggets 113-110 just a day prior. In that close contest, Wembanyama made a pivotal play, stealing the ball from Jokic in the final seconds, allowing Vassell to score a fast-break layup for the win. However, Jokic ensured there would be no last-minute dramatics this time, contributing nine points during the overtime period.
In addition to Jokic’s stellar performance, Michael Porter Jr. added 28 points and pulled down 10 rebounds for Denver. For the Spurs, Harrison Barnes scored 22 points while Devin Vassell contributed 19 points. The Spurs, trying to extend their winning streak to three games, battled hard. In a nail-biting moment of the regular time, Vassell managed to tie the game at 108 with just 14 seconds left, scoring on a rebound after a missed contested layup. Jokic had a chance to clinch the game in regulation but missed a 19-foot jumper over Wembanyama as the clock wound down.
In an earlier display of tension, Zach Collins and Russell Westbrook each received a technical foul during the first quarter after engaging in some playful taunting, with Westbrook’s antics coming from the sidelines.
**Takeaways**
For the Nuggets, their bench contributed a combined total of 18 points and 21 rebounds, while the Spurs’ reserves were more impactful, scoring 43 points overall. In the two-game series against Denver, Julian Champagnie shone from beyond the arc, making three out of his four attempts from three-point range.
**Key Moment**
A crucial play occurred when Jokic stripped Wembanyama of the ball, leading to his 44th point on a layup; this crucial score put Denver ahead 115-108 with 2:27 left in overtime. The Nuggets showcased their teamwork with Jokic garnering two rebounds and Westbrook securing another as they took multiple shots during that possession.
**Key Stat**
Wembanyama has been on a scoring streak, registering an average of 30.6 points and 11.7 rebounds over his last nine games, showing his development in his rookie season.
**Looking Ahead**
The Denver Nuggets are set to host the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, while the San Antonio Spurs will kick off a four-game road trip in Chicago on Monday.
