Jamal Murray described Monday night’s 128-125 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets as a physically demanding contest. “That was a long ass game… it’s always physical and a game you have to be ready for individually and as a team,” he said.
Murray credited Denver’s ability to adapt during the back-and-forth matchup, especially after Houston struck early in the first quarter. “We were getting great looks… we just had to lock in before it got worse,” he said, emphasizing the team’s focus and composure.
The guard highlighted the balance between aggressive play and game flow. “Sometimes you got to be aggressive… it’s just kind of what the game demanded,” Murray said, referencing his late-game drives and decision-making alongside Nikola Jokic.
Murray also praised the contributions of Spencer Jones, noting his high basketball IQ and versatility. “You can tell somebody has the strength, attentiveness… he does all the things you wouldn’t expect and a little better than average,” he said.
Reflecting on free-throw performance, Murray remained pragmatic despite some misses. “I got frustrated at one… I got it back, 15 of 15,” he said, underscoring the importance of mental focus in tight games.
Murray acknowledged the physical nature of the matchup and the challenges of officiating. “It’s tough for the refs to call both sides like dead even… they missed some calls on our end and theirs,” he said, showing respect for the competitive intensity of Houston.
The Nuggets guard also emphasized teamwork and reading the game over strict play-calling. “Everybody just finding a way to impact the game… we did a good job giving whatever the game asks for,” he said, highlighting Denver’s adaptability.
Monday’s win marked Denver’s fifth straight victory and first home triumph since November 8, with Murray contributing 35 points and six of the team’s 11 overtime points. Jokic added a triple-double with 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, solidifying the Nuggets’ late-game execution.
Denver improved its standing near the top of the Western Conference despite playing shorthanded, while Houston fell to 10-17 and has now lost three consecutive road games. The Rockets visit New Orleans on Thursday, and Denver returns home to host the Orlando Magic.
