The defending champion Denver Nuggets found their playoff grit Friday night, outlasting the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in a thrilling 113-104 overtime victory in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals.
The win gives Denver a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series and renews their championship momentum following a blowout loss in Game 2.
Nuggets Lean on Experience and Star Power
After trailing most of regulation and never leading by more than two points, Denver took complete control in the overtime period, outscoring Oklahoma City 11-2. It was a display of playoff composure led by Jamal Murray, who finished with 27 points and several timely buckets in crunch time.
Michael Porter Jr., who had struggled in the previous two games, found his rhythm early and provided a much-needed spark with 21 points on efficient shooting. Nikola Jokic, despite a rough shooting night (8-of-25 from the field, 0-of-10 from three), recorded a double-double with 20 points and 16 rebounds, setting the tone with a finger-roll layup to start overtime.
Aaron Gordon also came up big for Denver, adding 22 points and steadying the team through a back-and-forth second half.
Thunder’s Offense Falters in the Clutch
For the Thunder, it was a frustrating night offensively. MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander couldn’t find his usual touch, shooting just 7-of-22 from the floor and scoring only 18 points. Jalen Williams kept Oklahoma City in the game with a team-high 32 points, while Chet Holmgren added 18 points and 7 rebounds.
The Thunder held a 56-51 halftime lead and led by three entering the fourth quarter. But a lack of execution down the stretch and cold shooting in overtime prevented them from stealing a road win.
Late Game Drama and Missed Opportunities
Both teams had chances to win the game in regulation. Gilgeous-Alexander missed a 12-foot jumper with three seconds remaining, and Jokic missed a 19-footer at the buzzer, sending the game to overtime tied at 102.
In the extra period, the Nuggets' playoff-tested core took over. Murray and Porter Jr. hit big shots, while the defense stifled Oklahoma City's offense, which managed just two points in the final five minutes.
Nuggets Respond After Game 2 Blowout
The win was a major bounce-back for Denver after a 43-point loss in Game 2. Head coach Michael Malone emphasized poise and resilience going into Game 3, and the Nuggets responded by staying within striking distance until seizing the moment in overtime.
Porter Jr. was especially key, making his first five shots—including three from beyond the arc—to help the Nuggets avoid an early collapse. His improved shooting and Jokic’s dominance on the boards helped Denver weather a strong first half from Holmgren and the Thunder.
What’s Next: Game 4 in Denver
The series continues with
Game 4 on Sunday at Ball Arena, where Denver has a chance to take a commanding 3-1 lead. Oklahoma City will look to regroup and regain the offensive flow that powered them to a dominant Game 2 victory.
Key Stats:
- Jamal Murray: 27 points
- Michael Porter Jr.: 21 points
- Nikola Jokic: 20 points, 16 rebounds
- Aaron Gordon: 22 points
- Jalen Williams (OKC): 32 points
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 18 points (7-of-22 FG)
