Nikola Jokic's late hoop lifts Nuggets past Suns

Nuggets star records second straight triple-double in victory over Phoenix

Mar. 25, 2026 at 11:49am

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Nikola Jokic scored 23 points and recorded his 29th triple-double of the season, including a game-winning jumper with 11.5 seconds remaining, to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 125-123 victory over the host Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.

Why it matters

The win keeps the Nuggets in fourth place in the Western Conference standings, a key position that secures home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. Jokic's late-game heroics also cement his status as one of the NBA's elite players.

The details

Jokic added 17 rebounds and 17 assists to his 23 points, reaching the triple-double mark just 11 seconds into the second half. Jamal Murray scored 11 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter to help the Nuggets rally. The Suns were led by Devin Booker's 22 points and 8 assists, while Jalen Green and Grayson Allen each scored 21 points.

  • Jokic reached his 29th triple-double of the season 11 seconds into the second half.
  • Jokic hit the game-winning jumper with 11.5 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The Denver Nuggets' star center, who recorded his 29th triple-double of the season and hit the game-winning shot.

Jamal Murray

The Nuggets' guard, who scored 11 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter to help Denver rally.

Devin Booker

The Phoenix Suns' star guard, who led his team with 22 points and 8 assists.

Jalen Green

The Suns' young guard, who scored 21 points in the loss.

Grayson Allen

The Suns' guard, who also scored 21 points and made five 3-pointers.

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What they’re saying

“Nikola Jokic is just an incredible player. He makes winning plays time and time again.”

— Michael Malone, Nuggets Head Coach

What’s next

The Nuggets will look to continue their winning streak on Friday when they host the Los Angeles Lakers. The Suns will try to bounce back on Thursday when they visit the Golden State Warriors.

The takeaway

Nikola Jokic's late-game heroics once again proved why he is one of the NBA's elite players and most valuable assets for the Nuggets. His ability to impact the game in so many ways makes Denver a dangerous team in the Western Conference playoff race.