Sport

Nuggets Soar Past Thunder in Thrilling Overtime Victory: Game 3 Recap

2025-05-10

Author: Chun

In a captivating showdown in Denver, the Nuggets turned the tide after a humbling 43-point defeat, showcasing their resilience against the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder. The Nuggets clinched a pivotal 113-104 overtime victory, thanks to stellar performances from Jamal Murray, who scored 27 points, and Aaron Gordon with 22 points. Michael Porter Jr. made a remarkable comeback, adding 21 points in his best game since suffering a shoulder injury.

Despite trailing for much of the game, the Nuggets tapped into their experience and home-court advantage. They executed a crucial 11-2 run in overtime, leaving the Thunder struggling with only one successful possession throughout the extra period.

Interim coach David Adelson praised his team's late-game performance, emphasizing the importance of relying on past experiences to secure victory. This win gives the Nuggets a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference semifinals.

However, it wasn't a perfect night for superstar Nikola Jokic, who faced struggles, registering eight turnovers and shooting just 8-of-25 from the field, including a dismal 0-for-10 beyond the arc. Yet, he managed to finish with 20 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists.

"What an awful NBA night for him," chuckled Adelson, highlighting Jokic's frustration. Nonetheless, he expressed faith in Jokic's ability to bounce back in Game 4, scheduled for Sunday at Ball Arena.

For the Thunder, coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the sting of the loss but remained optimistic about his team’s growth during the playoffs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, another MVP contender, struggled as well, hitting just 7 of 22 shots and finishing with 18 points. Jalen Williams led OKC with an impressive 32 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed 18.

A nail-biting finish saw the game tied at 102 after regulation. Both Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic had opportunities to win it but fell short in the dying seconds.

"Losses always sting, especially in the playoffs," Daigneault noted, emphasizing that overcoming adversity is part of becoming a great team. With challenges ahead, both teams are poised for a thrilling continuation of this playoff series.