Image Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Nikola Jokic Outshines Alperen Sengun In Epic Duel As Nuggets Star Reinforces His Reign Over NBA

Image Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Denver Nuggets survived a tense overtime battle to defeat the Houston Rockets 128–125 in a clash of two Western Conference heavyweights. The game featured relentless shot‑making and momentum swings, but Denver held firm in the extra period to secure its fifth straight win.

Nikola Jokic once again imposed his dominance, recording 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists for his NBA‑leading 12th triple‑double of the season. Even foul trouble late in the contest could not slow the three‑time MVP, who continues to anchor Denver’s push near the top of the standings.

Jokic’s duel with Alperen Sengun was a highlight of the night. Sengun matched the intensity with a triple‑double of his own, finishing with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Rockets center looked determined to challenge Jokic’s supremacy, but Denver’s star consistently found answers in a battle that felt personal.

NIKOLA JOKIC TONIGHT:

39 POINTS
15 REBOUNDS
10 ASSISTS
2 STEALS
2 BLOCKS
13/27 FG
5/9 3P

INSANE NUMBERS. pic.twitter.com/SpEY9Eh1gO
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 16, 2025

Jamal Murray provided crucial support, scoring 35 points and delivering six of Denver’s 11 points in overtime. Murray was nearly flawless at the line, converting 14 of 15 free throws, including a critical attempt with 2.3 seconds left in regulation that forced overtime after an away‑from‑play foul on Houston’s Amen Thompson. Denver retained possession but Jokic’s three‑point attempt at the buzzer was off target, sending the game into the extra frame.

Overtime Drama Seals Denver’s Narrow Victory

The Nuggets built a 124–117 lead in overtime after a Spencer Jones three‑pointer with 2:59 remaining. Houston refused to fold, clawing back to within three with 13 seconds left. Sengun attempted a contested 24‑foot three in the closing seconds, but the shot missed, allowing Denver to escape with the win.

The victory marked Denver’s first home triumph since November 8 and improved its record to 19–6. The Nuggets remain buoyed by the health of Nikola Jokic and Murray, whose two‑man game has been the foundation of the team’s offense for nearly a decade.

However, injuries continue to linger, with Peyton Watson exiting early due to a right trunk contusion, joining Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon on the sidelines. The Nuggets will look to extend their winning streak when they face the Orlando Magic on Thursday night.