Double Domination: Jokic And Russ Triple-Double Into NBA History

In a historic night for the NBA, Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook etched their names into the annals of basketball history by becoming the first two players to record triple-doubles in the same game since 2017. Jokic, the reigning MVP, put up a dominant performance with 30 points, 21 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Westbrook added 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. The duo’s combined efforts propelled the Denver Nuggets to a 128-116 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

A Historic Night

Jokic and Westbrook’s triple-doubles were the first by two players in the same game since LeBron James and Russell Westbrook did it for the Cleveland Cavaliers on December 1, 2017. It was also the first time since March 19, 1989, that two players recorded 30-point triple-doubles in the same game. That night, Michael Jordan and Isiah Thomas both accomplished the feat for the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons, respectively.

Jokic’s triple-double was his sixth of the season and the 76th of his career, moving him past Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most triple-doubles by a center in NBA history. Westbrook’s triple-double was his 198th of his career, tying him with Oscar Robertson for the second-most triple-doubles in NBA history, behind only Jason Kidd (181).

Dominating Performances

Jokic and Westbrook were both dominant throughout the game. Jokic shot 10-of-16 from the field, including 3-of-5 from three-point range, and was a force on the boards, grabbing 21 rebounds, including 10 offensive rebounds. He also dished out 10 assists, showcasing his all-around game.

Westbrook was equally impressive, shooting 12-of-21 from the field, including 2-of-5 from three-point range. He also added 11 rebounds and 11 assists, proving that he is still one of the most explosive and versatile players in the league.

A Turning Point?

Jokic and Westbrook’s historic night could be a turning point for both the Nuggets and the Thunder. The Nuggets have struggled to find consistency this season, but Jokic’s dominant performance could be a sign that he is ready to lead them to another playoff run. The Thunder, on the other hand, are in the midst of a rebuild, but Westbrook’s triple-double shows that he can still be a valuable asset to a young team.

Only time will tell what the future holds for Jokic and Westbrook, but their historic night is a reminder that they are still two of the most talented and exciting players in the NBA.