The Denver Nuggets made history by winning their first NBA Finals in the team’s 47-year existence. On Tuesday afternoon (NZ time), the Nuggets secured victory over the Miami Heat with a score of 94-89, triumphing in the best-of-seven series in just five games.
Nikola Jokić, the 28-year-old Serbian center, played a star role in leading the team to success. With 28 points and 16 rebounds, Jokić’s outstanding performance earned him the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player title. Reflecting on the game, Jokić expressed his admiration for the team’s effort and their ability to overcome challenges. “It was an ugly game; we couldn’t make shots. But at the end, we figured out how to defend. That’s why we won the game,” Jokić remarked.
Denver fans joined in the celebration of the historical achievement. Videos showed enthusiastic crowds gathering downtown, cheering, climbing light posts, and setting off fireworks.
Fans from across the NBA also joined in the excitement, acknowledging Denver’s milestone. A Dallas Mavericks fan tweeted, “Fans of teams with multiple championships don’t understand what it’s like as a fan to see this statistic go from 0 to 1 for your favorite team. Congrats Denver Fans. Enjoy it to the fullest! Let it bring you happiness!” Similarly, a Miami Heat fan expressed their happiness for Jokić and the Nuggets, saying, “Congratulations to Denver! I swear I’d be rooting for y’all if it wasn’t my team playing on the other side. I’m so happy for Jokic. I’m so happy for the fans!! This is y’all’s first championship ever! Couldn’t think of anyone who deserved it more other than Miami lol.”
Following the win, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone cited a quote from Pat Riley, the President of the Miami Heat and former coach, about the evolution of the game and the journey from being an underdog to becoming a champion. Malone emphasized that the team is not satisfied and is determined to continue striving for success. “We accomplished something this franchise has never done before, but we have a lot of young, talented players in that locker room, and I think we just showed through 16 playoff wins what we’re capable of on the biggest stage in the world,” Malone stated.
