## Denver Nuggets Fall to Spurs 139–136, Ending Their NBA Cup Run
### Early Lead Fades Away
On November 28, 2025, in Denver, Colorado, the Denver Nuggets lost a heartbreaker to the San Antonio Spurs, 139–136, resulting in their elimination from the NBA Cup. The Nuggets built a comfortable lead early in the game, powered by efficient shooting and aggressive defense. However, inconsistency and turnovers allowed the Spurs to battle back late.
### Key Moments and Performances
Guard Peyton Watson had strong moments handling the ball under defensive pressure, showing promising control and energy. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. contributed significant offense, combining for multiple key three-pointers that gave Denver breathing room in the first half.
Despite a solid start, the Nuggets struggled to contain San Antonio’s fast-paced attack in the fourth quarter. The Spurs’ backcourt surged, exploiting Denver’s defensive lapses and converting clutch shots down the stretch.
### Turning Point
The decisive stretch came in the final minutes when the Nuggets’ offense went cold. Missed free throws and costly mistakes shifted momentum to the Spurs, who closed the game with precision and composure. Denver’s final possession failed to produce a clean shot, sealing their fate as the buzzer sounded.
### Post-Game Reactions
Head coach Michael Malone acknowledged the team’s effort but pointed to recurring issues with late-game defense and focus. Players expressed frustration over the lost opportunity yet emphasized learning from the experience as they look ahead to the regular season.
> “We had the game in our hands,” said Malone. “We’ve got to finish better and stay locked in when it matters most.”
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**Author’s summary:** Denver’s missed chances and defensive lapses erased a promising start, as San Antonio mounted a late rally to knock the Nuggets out of the NBA Cup in a 139–136 thriller.
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Denver Stiffs — 2025-11-29