Denver Nuggets’ Jokic Hits Milestone with 66-Foot Buzzer-Beater/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Nikola Jokic dazzled in the Denver Nuggets’ 132-123 win over the Sacramento Kings with a jaw-dropping 66-foot shot and his fifth consecutive triple-double. The reigning MVP racked up 35 points, 22 rebounds, and 17 assists, making NBA history alongside Wilt Chamberlain. Jokic’s incredible performance underscores his dominance and his seventh consecutive All-Star selection.
Nikola Jokic’s Historic Night: Quick Looks
- Highlight Moment: Jokic sank a 66-foot buzzer-beater to end the third quarter.
- Stat Line: Finished with 35 points, 22 rebounds, and 17 assists.
- Triple-Double Streak: Fifth consecutive triple-double, 20th of the season.
- NBA Milestone: Joined Wilt Chamberlain as the only players with 35+ points, 20+ rebounds, and 15+ assists in a game.
- Team Impact: Led Denver to a 132-123 win, their fourth consecutive victory.
- All-Star Recognition: Earned his seventh All-Star selection, fifth as a starter.
Denver Nuggets’ Jokic Hits Milestone with 66-Foot Buzzer-Beater
Deep Look
Nikola Jokic showcased his unmatched skill and composure in the Denver Nuggets’ 132-123 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night. The game’s most electrifying moment came as the third quarter wound down. With 1.7 seconds left on the clock, Jokic received an inbounds pass, turned, and launched an improbable 66-foot heave. The ball swished through the net, sparking wild celebrations in the arena. Jokic, ever calm, strolled back to the bench as his teammates celebrated the incredible shot.
“I thought it had a chance, and then boom,” said Russell Westbrook, praising Jokic’s unflappable reaction.
The buzzer-beater might have been just one moment in a dominant Nuggets performance, but it symbolized Jokic’s all-around excellence. The reigning MVP finished with 35 points, 22 rebounds, and a season-high 17 assists, marking his fifth consecutive triple-double and the 20th of the season — more than any other player in the league.
“He’s a guy that has this uncanny ability,” said Nuggets coach Michael Malone, marveling at his star player’s knack for delivering historic performances.
“It’s a lucky shot, not really high percentage, but I took it to make it,” Jokic admitted. His shooting accuracy remains impressive, with a 47.9% success rate from beyond the arc after making two of three three-pointers Thursday night.
Beyond the highlight reel, Jokic’s numbers solidified his place in NBA history. According to the league, he joins Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to achieve a stat line of at least 35 points, 20 rebounds, and 15 assists in a single game. Jokic is also averaging a triple-double this season — 30.2 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 10 assists — a feat that underscores his consistency and versatility.
The victory marked Denver’s fourth consecutive win, though it wasn’t without drama. Despite leading 110-85 at the end of the third quarter, the Nuggets had to fend off a furious fourth-quarter rally by the Kings to secure the win.
Jokic’s stellar form has earned him a spot in next month’s All-Star Game in San Francisco, his seventh overall and fifth as a starter.
“Just to be on the floor with the best players in the league is an honor,” Jokic said.
As the Nuggets continue their strong season, Jokic remains at the center of their success, rewriting records and thrilling fans with moments like his unforgettable 66-foot heave.
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