Nikola Jokić Makes NBA History with Unprecedented 30-20-20 Performance in Nuggets’ Overtime Win Over Suns
In one of the most thrilling games of the season, Nikola Jokić etched his name into NBA history yet again, becoming the first player ever to record a 30-point, 20-rebound, and 20-assist game. The Denver Nuggets’ superstar center delivered a jaw-dropping performance on Friday night, leading his team to a 149-141 overtime victory over the Phoenix Suns at Ball Arena.
Jokić Shatters Records with Triple-Double Brilliance
Jokić finished the game with 31 points, a career-high 22 assists, and 21 rebounds, securing his 29th triple-double of the season and the 159th of his illustrious career. His historic stat line surpasses the legendary Wilt Chamberlain’s single-game assist record for a center, proving once again why he is widely regarded as one of the greatest big men in NBA history.
“The Joker records his 20TH DIME for the FIRST 30 PTS, 20 REB, 20 AST game in NBA HISTORY. Congrats Jokić!” the NBA posted on social media following his extraordinary achievement.
Denver’s Supporting Cast Steps Up
While Jokić stole the headlines, his teammates played pivotal roles in securing the hard-fought win. Aaron Gordon had one of the best shooting nights of his career, draining a career-high seven three-pointers and finishing with 27 points. Christian Braun also stepped up, contributing a season-best 25 points, while Jamal Murray added 19 points and eight assists. Michael Porter Jr. chipped in 16 points, including a crucial game-tying layup late in regulation.
How the Nuggets Sealed the Overtime Victory
Denver seemed to have the game under control, building an 85-64 lead in the third quarter. However, Phoenix mounted a furious comeback, erasing the deficit and sending the game to overtime on a clutch three-pointer by Kevin Durant in the final moments of regulation.
Once in overtime, Jokić wasted no time in asserting his dominance. He ignited a 7-0 run for the Nuggets, scoring on a quick bucket and a free throw. Braun followed with a dunk and a layup to extend Denver’s lead to double digits. In the final minute, Phoenix was forced to send Denver to the free-throw line, but the combination of Murray, Braun, and Gordon made sure the Nuggets sealed the win by sinking six clutch free throws.
Phoenix’s Effort Falls Short
Despite the loss, the Suns had strong performances from their stars. Devin Booker led all scorers with 34 points and seven assists, while Durant tallied 29 points and nine rebounds. Mason Plumlee delivered a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds, and Nick Richards added 18 points. Bradley Beal also contributed 11 points and nine assists, while Grayson Allen finished with 11 points.
Phoenix staged an impressive rally, clawing back from an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit. Booker scored six straight points to bring the Suns within three, and a put-back shot from him tied the game at 120 with just over two minutes remaining. After a series of back-and-forth plays, Braun drained a three-pointer with 1.4 seconds left, only for Durant to answer with a buzzer-beating shot to force overtime.
Jokić Strengthens MVP Case
With another masterclass performance, Jokić continues to build his case for a fourth MVP award. Already a three-time league MVP, six-time All-NBA selection, and seven-time All-Star, he has consistently delivered for the reigning champion Nuggets. His unique skill set—combining elite scoring, rebounding, and passing—sets him apart from any other center in league history.
Jokić’s dominance on Friday night was not just a testament to his individual brilliance but also his ability to elevate his teammates. His vision and playmaking allowed Denver to keep the offense flowing, especially in high-pressure moments against a tough Suns squad.
What’s Next for the Nuggets and Suns?
With this victory, the Nuggets have now won two straight games and claimed three of their four meetings with the Suns this season. Denver continues to solidify its position as one of the top contenders in the Western Conference.
For the Suns, the loss highlights their ongoing struggles against elite teams. While they have plenty of firepower with Durant, Booker, and Beal, their inability to close out games against championship-caliber opponents remains a concern.
As the playoff race tightens, both teams will look to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. If Friday night’s battle was any indication, the road to the NBA Finals will be nothing short of electrifying.
Jokić’s record-breaking performance is just another chapter in his incredible career, and fans can only wonder—what will The Joker do next?
