By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Denver Nuggets put an end to their losing streak after taming the San Antonio Spurs, 132-120, in the ongoing NBA season last November 27, 2023.
Nikola Jokic fielded MVP numbers for the Nuggets and finished with a near triple-double of 39 points, 11 rebounds, nine assists, and a steal.
It was an efficient outing from the former league MVP after converting 17 of his 29 total attempts from the field while shooting a perfect 5/5 from the free-throw line.
Denver’s head coach Michael Malone banked on Jokic’s paint control and schooled every defender the Spurs threw at him.
Despite receiving double teams at the start of the second half, Jokic adjusted and found a way to be productive as he fed his open teammates with his on-point ball distribution.
The Spurs were still within striking distance after ending the first quarter with a four-point deficit but Denver took control of the second and third quarters to open up a commanding 23-point advantage midway through the third frame.
Michael Porter Jr. backstopped Jokic with 25 markers built from 8/14 shooting from the field alongside seven rebounds and two assists.
Filling the shoes for the injured Jamal Murray is veteran floor general Reggie Jackson who still put up decent numbers with 20 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
Despite a late fightback from the Spurs in the final seven minutes of the game, Jokic and the reigning NBA kings slowed the pace and leaned on its set plays to neutralize San Antonio’s fast breaks.
Top rookie pick Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 22 points, 11 rebounds, six steals, four blocks, and two dimes.
The Spurs already lost 12 straight times and are aiming to halt its dry spell on December 1, 2023, against the Atlanta Hawks.
