While talking about Denver Nuggets’ determination to defend their NBA Titile , Back in 2013, when Jon Jones was a 26-year-old phenom champion in the UFC and seemingly invincible, he found himself in an unexpected struggle against Alexander Gustafsson, a no-hope Swede. This event was as shocking as when Rocky opened that cut on Drago’s eye out in Russia. Jon Jones wasn’t invincible after all, and it meant we were in for a fight. Gustafsson managed to take Jones down, something no one had done before, setting the stage for one of the most memorable UFC battles.
Jones, known for his dominance and freakishly long limbs, had never been taken down. Gustafsson’s takedown and subsequent performance in the early rounds had everyone, including me, on the edge of their seats. As the fight progressed, it became clear that Jones was in trouble. With a minute left in the fourth round, Jones dug deep, delivering a spinning elbow that turned the tide of the fight. It was a defining moment, showing that even the most dominant champions must face adversity.
The Denver Nuggets’ Moment of Adversity
This brings to the Denver Nuggets. Similar to Jones, the Nuggets found themselves in a challenging situation during their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. After a lackluster start, where they fell into a shocking 0-2 hole, the Denver Nuggets needed to find their fight. They had to realize that defending a title is vastly different from being the challenger.
Games 3 and 4 at the Target Center were pivotal for Denver. The Timberwolves, hungry for victory, punched the Nuggets in the face in the first two games. But instead of succumbing, Denver woke up. They showed they were up to the task of being defending champions. The first seven games of the playoffs saw the Denver Nuggets sleepwalking, treating the first halves as optional. However, the Minnesota series forced them to find their resolve.
Anthony Edwards, Naz Reid, and Rudy Gobert had their moments of glory in the first two games in Denver, making it seem like the Denver Nuggets had lost their championship pedigree.
But Game 3 changed everything. It was the most fun I’ve had watching the Denver Nuggets. They responded with the determination and skill that had won them the championship last season. The ball movement, shot selection, and overall execution were back to championship form.
Denver Nuggets’ Resurgence
Game 4 further solidified Denver’s return to form. The Denver Nuggets showcased their ability to play selfless basketball, with contributions from all key players. Aaron Gordon was a quiet hero, Justin Holiday emerged as a revelation, and Nikola Jokic looked every bit the three-time MVP. Jamal Murray, embracing the boos, transformed back into Playoff Jamal.
Now, with the series tied 2-2, the momentum swings back to Denver. The road team has won every game, which might seem ominous, but the Nuggets have regained the feel of last year’s team, one that wouldn’t be denied. They’ve locked in, much like the old Tim Duncan-led San Antonio teams, and are now ready to defend their title with the same tenacity.
The Nuggets had to get punched in the mouth to learn a critical lesson. It’s one thing to be the hunters; it’s another to be the hunted.@ChuckMindenhall:https://t.co/R7QQujKIpo
— The Ringer (@ringer) May 14, 2024
Last season, Denver was overcoming half a century of being second-class citizens in the NBA. They had to prove themselves by defeating formidable opponents like the Wolves, Suns, Lakers, and Heat. This season, they face the new challenge of being the defending champions, the team everyone wants to beat.
Looking Ahead
For Denver Nuggets fans, this season represents a long-awaited dream. Since 1976, we’ve wanted to see our team become the bull’s-eye in the playoffs, taking everyone’s best punch and winning anyway. Denver’s journey from hunters to hunted is a testament to their resilience and determination. Just like Jon Jones in his fight against Gustafsson, the Denver Nuggets have shown that they can face adversity and come out on top.
