The Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets delivered one of the most electric, emotionally charged games of the season - a 128-125 battle that had everything: superstar performances, historic milestones, and a fair share of controversy. At the heart of it all? Nikola Jokic, once again reminding the league why he’s firmly in the MVP conversation.
Jokic was in full command, putting up a massive 39-point, 15-rebound, 10-assist triple-double. He shot 13-of-27 from the field and knocked down five of his nine attempts from deep - a stat line that doesn’t just speak to dominance, but to the versatility that makes him one of the most unique big men in NBA history. But this wasn’t a one-man show.
Across the court, Alperen Sengun matched Jokic’s brilliance with a triple-double of his own: 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. It wasn’t just a duel - it was history.
For the first time ever, two centers recorded triple-doubles in the same NBA game. That’s not just a statistical quirk - it’s a reflection of how the modern big man is reshaping the game.
These aren’t just rim protectors or post-up threats anymore. They’re playmakers, floor spacers, and offensive engines.
And while fans were treated to a rare showcase of skill and vision from two of the league’s most gifted bigs, the game wasn’t without its flashpoints. A controversial foul call on Amen Thompson in the closing stages shifted the tone from awe to outrage.
The play in question? Tim Hardaway Jr. went down, but replays suggested there may have been little - if any - contact.
The Rockets challenged the call, but the ruling stood.
That decision lit a fire under Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, who didn’t hold back postgame. “Most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time,” Udoka said.
“Two have no business being out there, and the crew chief was acting star-struck.” It was a pointed critique - the kind that’s sure to draw attention from the league office.
In the end, the Nuggets walked away with a hard-fought win, but the night will be remembered for more than just the final score. It was a clash of elite talent, a history-making performance from two rising stars at the center position, and a reminder that in the NBA, the drama doesn’t stop when the ball does.
Jokic continues to build his MVP case with performances like this - efficient, unselfish, and clutch. Sengun, meanwhile, is proving that he belongs in the conversation when we talk about the next generation of dominant bigs. And while the officiating may have left a sour taste for the Rockets, there’s no denying the entertainment value this game delivered.
This one had it all - and fans won’t soon forget it.