SAN FRANCISCO (AP) – In a sensational finish, Nikola Jokic’s 40-foot buzzer-beater clinched a remarkable comeback for the Denver Nuggets, who overcame an 18-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Golden State Warriors 130-127 on Thursday night.
Jokic, delivering a standout performance, amassed 34 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds. His crucial short jumper tied the game at 127 with just 26 seconds remaining. The Warriors’ final possession crumbled with a turnover by Stephen Curry, paving the way for Jokic’s dramatic game-winning shot from near the right sideline.
The defending champion Nuggets, riding high on a wave of success, have won 11 of their last 13 games, including six consecutive road victories. This win sends the Warriors, who have been struggling to reach a .500 record and recently ended a three-game losing streak, into further uncertainty with a 1-3 record on their seven-game home stand.
Denver’s Aaron Gordon contributed significantly with 30 points, and Jamal Murray added 25 to the team’s tally. Curry, despite the loss, led the Warriors with 30 points, and Klay Thompson chipped in with 24.
The Warriors initially seized control in the third quarter, outscoring the Nuggets 44-24 and overturning a double-digit deficit. Highlighted by Brandin Podziemski’s trio of corner 3-pointers, they entered the final quarter leading 107-94.
The Nuggets had earlier set a strong pace, taking a 70-63 lead into halftime, buoyed by a 62% shooting performance from the field.
Golden State’s lineup was missing Draymond Green, serving an indefinite suspension for the 11th straight game. Despite reports from ESPN about Green’s potential return to the team facility, Warriors coach Steve Kerr did not confirm these before the game.
Adding to Golden State’s challenges, Gary Payton II faces another extended absence due to a strained hamstring, with a re-evaluation scheduled in three weeks.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets are set to host the Orlando Magic on Friday night, while the Warriors will face the Detroit Pistons in their continued home stand.
