Timberwolves Hold Off Nuggets in Game 1
Denver Loses Home-Court Advantage Despite Jokic's Dominant Performance
Denver, CO - April 16, 2023:
In a thrilling start to the 2023 Western Conference First Round, the Minnesota Timberwolves stole home-court advantage from the Denver Nuggets with a hard-fought 114-109 victory in Game 1.
Nikola Jokic put up a monster performance for the Nuggets, finishing with 32 points, 18 rebounds, and 9 assists. However, it wasn't enough to overcome a balanced Timberwolves attack led by Anthony Edwards' 25 points, D'Angelo Russell's 22, and Karl-Anthony Towns' 20.
The Timberwolves took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Nuggets 32-23 and building a 10-point lead. Denver rallied in the fourth, but Minnesota held on, hitting crucial free throws down the stretch to secure the win.
Box Score
| Player | PTS | REB | AST |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Jokic (DEN) | 32 | 18 | 9 |
| Anthony Edwards (MIN) | 25 | 4 | 3 |
| D'Angelo Russell (MIN) | 22 | 5 | 6 |
| Karl-Anthony Towns (MIN) | 20 | 11 | 5 |
Conclusion
The Timberwolves' victory is a significant upset, and it has put the Nuggets on notice. Denver will look to regain home-court advantage in Game 2, but Minnesota has proven they can compete with the NBA's elite teams.
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