In a thrilling encounter, the Oklahoma City Thunder (16-8) secured a dramatic 118-117 victory over the Denver Nuggets (17-10) as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a game-winning turnaround jumper with just a second remaining.
Jalen Williams led the charge for the Thunder with an impressive 24 points, while rookie Chet Holmgren showcased his defensive prowess with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and a career-best nine blocks, narrowly missing a triple-double.
Despite Nikola Jokic’s double-double performance of 24 points and 12 assists, and Michael Porter Jr.’s 20 points, the Nuggets fell short in a closely contested matchup. The absence of guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope due to concussion protocol added to the challenges for Denver.
The Nuggets seemed in control with a 111-103 lead and 3:33 left on the clock. However, a spirited 9-2 run by the Thunder, highlighted by an alley-oop dunk from Holmgren, brought them within one point with 1:38 remaining.
In the closing moments, Porter’s 20-foot shot and Gilgeous-Alexander’s free throws put the Nuggets ahead 117-114 with 43 seconds left. However, Williams’ driving layup narrowed the gap, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
With 8 seconds left, Gilgeous-Alexander secured a crucial rebound, and then, in a breathtaking move, sank the turnaround jumper over Peyton Watson with just a second on the clock, sealing the Thunder’s remarkable comeback.
