One of the most thrilling games of the NBA season was played on April 1, 2025, when the Denver Nuggets hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves at Ball Arena. The contest extended into double overtime, culminating in a narrow 140-139 victory for the Timberwolves. Nikola Jokić’s incredible 61-point triple-double, the highest-scoring triple-double in NBA history, was the game’s high point.
Jokić had a historic game, but the Timberwolves showed incredible tenacity. With 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, Anthony Edwards led Minnesota. He scored 24 of his points in the fourth quarter and overtime. Nickeil Alexander-Walker was crucial in securing the victory by making two clutch free throws with 0.1 seconds left.
Key Player Statistics
Below is a table highlighting the standout performances from the game:
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Jokić | Denver Nuggets | 61 | 10 | 10 | Career-high points; 60-point triple-double |
| Anthony Edwards | Minnesota Timberwolves | 34 | 10 | 8 | Led team; crucial plays in overtime |
| Nickeil Alexander-Walker | Minnesota Timberwolves | 26 | 8 | 8 | Game-winning free throws |
| Julius Randle | Minnesota Timberwolves | 26 | 9 | 2 | Consistent scoring throughout the game |
| Aaron Gordon | Denver Nuggets | 30 | 8 | 5 | Key contributor in both regulation and OT |
Highlights of the Game and Important Moments
The contest was evenly matched, as evidenced by the game’s 12 ties and 21 lead changes. Jokić’s performance was especially impressive; he joined Luka Dončić and James Harden as the only other players in NBA history to record a 60-point triple-double.
With the Nuggets ahead by one in the last seconds of the second overtime, Russell Westbrook blocked a pass but failed to make a crucial layup. With 0.1 seconds remaining, he fouled Alexander-Walker on a three-point attempt, which resulted in the game-winning free throws.
Consequences and Prospects
The Timberwolves’ standing in the Western Conference playoff race was strengthened by this win, which raised their record to 44-32. Despite Jokić’s heroics, the Nuggets lost 47-29, underscoring the difficulties of depending so much on one player’s performance.
The match served as a reminder of the value of team depth and poise under duress. This game demonstrates the ferocity and unpredictable nature of NBA basketball as both teams continue their run for the playoffs.
