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Spurs Upset Nuggets in Thrilling NBA Cup Showdown, Advance to Quarterfinals

DENVER – The San Antonio Spurs, fueled by a stellar performance from Devin Vassell, stunned the Denver Nuggets 139-136 on Friday night to advance to the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup. Vassell exploded for a season-high 35 points, hitting a remarkable 7-of-9 from beyond the arc, as the Spurs overcame an 18-point third-quarter deficit.

Julian Champagnie chipped in with a season-best 25 points for San Antonio, who capitalized on 17 Nuggets turnovers, converting them into 30 points. The Spurs also excelled at the free-throw line, sinking 30 of 32 attempts.

Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 37 points, reaching a career milestone by becoming only the fifth player in franchise history to surpass 10,000 points. Cam Johnson added 28 and Nikola Jokic contributed 21 points for Denver. Jokic showcased his usual flair with a dazzling behind-the-back assist.

Both teams were playing shorthanded, with San Antonio missing star rookie Victor Wembanyama (calf) and Stephon Castle (hip), while Denver was without starters Aaron Gordon (hamstring) and Christian Braun (ankle). Despite Wembanyama’s absence, the Spurs relied on their outside shooting, with eight players hitting at least one three-pointer.

The Nuggets built a substantial lead, going up by 18 points early in the third quarter, but San Antonio mounted a furious comeback, closing the gap to just one point heading into the final frame.

The Spurs will look to continue their momentum on Sunday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Nuggets, reeling from their third consecutive home loss, face a quick turnaround as they travel to Phoenix to take on the Suns on Saturday night for a back-to-back game.

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