Four years ago today, the Denver Nuggets made history with a remarkable achievement that will forever be etched in NBA lore. On this date, the Nuggets pulled off their first-ever comeback from a 3-1 deficit in a playoff series, a feat that showcased their resilience, determination, and unyielding team spirit.
The journey began in the 2020 NBA playoffs, held in the Orlando bubble due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Nuggets faced off against the Utah Jazz in a fiercely contested first-round series. The Jazz, led by the explosive Donovan Mitchell, seemed poised to advance after taking a 3-1 series lead. The odds were stacked against Denver, and many had written them off, but this was where the Nuggets’ true character shone through.
In the face of elimination, Denver rallied with an unwavering resolve. Game 5 saw the Nuggets come alive, with a standout performance by Jamal Murray, who poured in 42 points, leading his team to a crucial victory and keeping their playoff hopes alive.
The following game, Denver displayed even more grit, overcoming the Jazz with another strong performance to force a Game 7. Murray’s brilliance continued, and the Nuggets, with contributions from key players like Nikola Jokić and Michael Porter Jr., demonstrated their depth and versatility.
Game 7 was the pinnacle of their remarkable comeback. The Nuggets showed an incredible blend of defense and offense, with Jokić, the team’s star center, delivering a performance that combined his scoring prowess with his playmaking skills. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, but Denver’s resilience never wavered. They ultimately emerged victorious, completing the historic comeback and advancing to the next round of the playoffs.