Nuggets Hand Rockets a Narrow Defeat, 112-109 in NBA Cup Showdown

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a gripping NBA Cup clash, the Denver Nuggets triumphed over the Houston Rockets with a score of 112-109 on Friday night. The match, held in Houston, marked the end of the Rockets’ impressive five-game winning streak. Star players Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray displayed their skills, ensuring Denver's victory.

Jokic proved yet again why he’s one of the league's premier talents, amassing 34 points and 10 rebounds, thus achieving another notable double-double. Murray contributed significantly as well, scoring 26 points while assisting 10 times, providing the Nuggets with necessary momentum and balance throughout the tightly contested game.

The Nuggets kicked off the match with strong defensive play. Early on, Houston struggled to find their rhythm, finishing the first quarter with only 6-for-24 shooting. Denver seized an early lead of 25-12, capitalizing on the Rockets’ turnovers and misfires while dominating offensive rebounds.

Houston came out energized in the second quarter, driven by Reed Sheppard’s impactful bench performance. Sheppard scored 18 points within the quarter, crucially assisting in scoring plays and helping the Rockets overcome their setbacks to take a 49-46 lead by halftime, igniting excitement among their fans.

However, Jokic was determined to regain the upper hand. In the third quarter, he dominated by scoring 18 points on nearly flawless shooting, leading the Nuggets to recapture the lead and achieving a 12-point advantage as the pressure mounted on the Rockets.

Houston made another attempt to battle back late in the fourth quarter, narrowing Denver's lead to just two points at 101-99. Murray, maintaining composure, scored key baskets as the match drew to a close, including a vital jumper and a driving layup, which secured a slim lead for Denver.

Jabari Smith Jr. kept the hope alive for Houston, sinking a pivotal three-pointer with 5.5 seconds remaining to make it 111-109. But with just 2.7 seconds left, Jokic secured the win by converting two free throws, ensuring Denver maintained their lead despite a last-ditch effort from Houston that fell short.

Smith ended the night with 21 points and 11 rebounds for the Rockets, while Sheppard contributed 27 points. However, Houston faced struggles overall, particularly with Kevin Durant scoring merely 13 points and Alperen Sengun having a challenging night with missed shots and turnovers.

Denver’s bench, featuring Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown, added valuable contributions totaling 22 points. This victory boosted the Nuggets’ record to 2-1 in West Group C of the NBA Cup, while the Rockets dropped to 1-2.

The game highlighted the significance of experience as Denver demonstrated poise under pressure, relying on their superstar synergy, whereas Houston fought valiantly but couldn't convert crucial plays. This win sends a powerful message from Denver about their championship-worthy consistency as they continue their journey in the group stage.