- Nikola Jokic scored a career-high 61 points, adding 11 rebounds and 10 assists in a historic triple-double performance
- The Serbian tied Shaq for most 50-point games by a center and equalled Wilt Chamberlain’s record for most triple-doubles in a season by a center
- Despite Jokic’s heroics, Denver lost 139:140 to Minnesota in a dramatic double-overtime showdown
Key Takeaways:
The NBA delivered a night of unforgettable drama after Stephen Curry lit up Memphis with 52 points and appeared to have sealed the performance of the night. That was until the showdown in Denver, where the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the Nuggets 140:139 in a double-overtime epic.
The spotlight shifted to Nikola Jokic, who produced a stunning all-time performance despite the loss. The Serbian center dropped 61 points, including crucial buckets in overtime, to nearly carry his team over the line. With Denver up 139:138 and just 17 seconds left, Russell Westbrook missed a chance to extend the lead, and his subsequent foul sent Nickeil Alexander-Walker to the free-throw line. The Timberwolves guard coolly converted both free throws, flipping the score in the dying seconds.
APRIL 1, 2025: A HISTORIC DATE
Tonight, Stephen Curry scored 52 PTS and Nikola Jokić scored 61 PTS.
It's the first date in NBA HISTORY where multiple former MVP winners scored 50+ PTS 🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/2SGCnhtlWr
— NBA (@NBA) April 2, 2025
Jokic’s stat line was jaw-dropping: 61 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. He shot 18-of-29 from the field, nailed 6 three-pointers, and hit 19 of 24 free throws. It was the highest-scoring triple-double ever recorded by a center and marked the most points by any player in the NBA this season.
The night was filled with milestones for Jokic. He set a personal best for points and minutes played, tied Shaquille O’Neal for the most 50-point games by a center, and equalled Wilt Chamberlain for the most triple-doubles in a single season by a player at his position. Even in defeat, Jokic’s performance will be remembered as one of the greatest displays in recent NBA history.