DENVER – In a thrilling finish, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s last-second turnaround jumper sealed a remarkable comeback for the Oklahoma City Thunder, who edged out the Denver Nuggets 118-117 on Saturday night. The Thunder’s rally overturned a late eight-point deficit, snapping Denver’s three-game winning streak.
Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 24 points, while rookie sensation Chet Holmgren contributed significantly with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and a career-high nine blocks. Holmgren’s block count was just one short of a triple-double, a feat he humorously remarked could have been achieved if not for Jamal Murray’s dunk on him in the first quarter.
The Nuggets, who were without guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope due to concussion protocol, saw strong performances from Nikola Jokic and Michael Porter Jr. Jokic racked up 24 points and 12 assists, while Porter Jr. added 20 points. Despite their efforts, Denver couldn’t maintain their lead in the closing stages, suffering only their second loss in 12 home games.
Denver’s coach Michael Malone expressed his disappointment, pointing out that better ball control and defensive stops could have secured the game for the Nuggets.
The game’s climax was a showcase of intense basketball, with the Thunder’s 9-2 run, highlighted by Holmgren’s alley-oop dunk, cutting the deficit to a single point. After a series of traded baskets, Gilgeous-Alexander’s crucial rebound and subsequent game-winning shot over Peyton Watson capped the rally. Denver’s last attempt to respond was thwarted as their entry pass was tipped, sealing the Thunder’s victory.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who had scored a season-low seven points against the Nuggets in their first meeting, redeemed himself with a strong fourth-quarter performance, scoring 11 of his points.
For Denver, Murray finished with 15 points, and Christian Braun added 14.
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The Thunder return home to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night, looking to build on this dramatic win. Meanwhile, the Nuggets will host the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night, aiming to rebound from this narrow defeat.
