Led by Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets are now on the verge of making history by clinching their first-ever NBA championship.
Despite facing adversity with Jokić's ankle injury and foul trouble, the Nuggets rallied in the second half to secure a 108-95 victory over the Miami Heat at the Kaseya Center on Friday night (US Standard Time).
With a commanding 3-1 series lead, the Nuggets have a chance to seal the championship in Game 5 at Ball Arena in Denver on Monday night (US Standard Time).
Early in the first quarter, Jokić suffered a hard ankle roll when he landed on Max Strus' foot, causing concerns for the Nuggets. However, after a brief visit to the locker room, Jokić returned to the game and immediately made an impact with a deep 3-pointer.
By halftime, he had already contributed 16 points and five rebounds, helping the Nuggets secure a five-point lead.
Following their pattern of dominance in the third quarter throughout the season, the Nuggets took control once again. Opening the period with a 10-4 run, they established a double-digit lead.
Although some unusual events occurred towards the end of the quarter, such as a broken rim and a fan's medical emergency, Aaron Gordon's alley-oop from Jokić and a late 3-pointer extended Denver's lead to 13 points heading into the final quarter.
The Miami Heat capitalized on a foul call against Jokić early in the fourth quarter, forcing him to spend most of the period on the bench.
Initially, the Heat reduced the deficit to five points, appearing poised for a comeback to even the series. However, that was as close as they would get.
The Nuggets maintained a comfortable lead, and with Jokić's return at the four-minute mark, they had an answer to every Miami attack.
Denver's defense stifled the Heat, allowing only four points in over four minutes of play while securing a decisive 13-point victory.
Aaron Gordon led the Nuggets' charge with 27 points, supported by Jokić's 23 points and 12 rebounds. Jamal Murray contributed 15 points and 12 assists, while Bruce Brown excelled off the bench with 21 points.
Jimmy Butler spearheaded the Heat's efforts with 25 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, while Bam Adebayo added 20 points and 11 rebounds.
