Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets kicked off their season with a heartbreaker Thursday night, falling to the Warriors 137-131 in overtime at Chase Center.
Aaron Gordon exploded for a career-high 50 points in a performance that left fans stunned.
The Nuggets forward became just the 6th player in NBA history to score 50+ in a season opener, joining an elite club that includes Michael Jordan (who did it twice), Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Elgin Baylor, and Wilt Chamberlain.
Gordon was nearly unstoppable, knocking down an incredible 10 three-pointers along the way.
But even Gordon’s historic night wasn’t enough to overcome Steph Curry and the red-hot Warriors.
Gordon’s Monster Performance Not Enough
Gordon came out firing, hitting 7-of-8 shots in the first half for 25 points. He stayed hot after halftime, adding another 20 points on 8-of-11 shooting before chipping in five more in overtime.
The veteran forward finished with 50 points, eight rebounds and two assists in 39 minutes of action.
What makes the performance even more remarkable? Gordon is typically known more for his athleticism and defense than his scoring.
After the game, in a moment that speaks volumes about his character, Gordon refused to take home a game ball the team offered him. The loss clearly overshadowed his personal achievement.
Steph Curry, meanwhile, reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the greatest shooters ever. The Warriors guard drilled a clutch three-pointer with less than 25 seconds left to force overtime.
Curry finished with 42 points, six rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and a block.
The Warriors have been nearly unstoppable since acquiring Jimmy Butler last season, going 25-7 in games with their new star.
For Denver, it’s a tough pill to swallow, but there’s plenty of basketball left to play. The Nuggets have 81 games remaining to right the ship.
They’ll look to bounce back Saturday evening when they host Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns in their home opener.
Can the Nuggets shake off this stunning defeat and give their home crowd something to cheer about? After Gordon’s breakout performance, Denver fans have reason to be optimistic despite the opening night disappointment.
