In a heated encounter on March 8, 2024, Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic confronted Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort following what Jokic deemed an unnecessary foul during the fourth quarter. The incident escalated tensions in a game marked by rivalry, particularly after both teams faced off in a seven-game series last season in the Western Conference semifinals.
The confrontation unfolded at the Paycom Center with 8:03 remaining in the fourth quarter. As Jokic sprinted up the court, Dort appeared to trip him by extending his leg, causing the big man to fall. Jokic quickly recovered and approached Dort, expressing his frustration. He stated, “It’s an unnecessary move and a necessary reaction. There is no such thing — I think there’s not supposed to be those things on a basketball floor.”
The altercation intensified when Jokic chest-bumped Dort, prompting Jaylin Williams to intervene. This led to a physical exchange between Jokic and Williams, escalating into a larger scrum involving players, coaches, officials, and staff. Following a review of the incident, the foul against Dort was upgraded to a flagrant foul 2, resulting in an automatic ejection. Crew chief James Williams explained that the officials determined Dort’s contact was “unnecessary and excessive with a high potential for injury.”
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault expressed his thoughts on the incident, emphasizing that if such a foul becomes a precedent, similar calls should be expected in the future. He refrained from speculating whether the ruling was influenced by Jokic’s status as a three-time MVP, stating, “No, I’m not going to answer the question like that. I said what I needed to say about it.”
Despite the controversy, the game continued with other notable performances. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returned after missing nine games due to an abdominal strain. He scored 36 points and provided nine assists in 34 minutes, although he sat out the overtime period due to a minutes restriction.
The Nuggets eventually lost 127-121 in overtime, marking a challenging period for the team. Since Jokic returned from a month-long absence, the Nuggets have recorded a disappointing 4-7 record, including a troubling 1-6 in clutch games that involve a five-point margin in the final five minutes.
Jokic recorded his league-leading 22nd triple-double during the match, contributing 23 points, 17 rebounds, and 14 assists. However, his shooting struggles continued, as he went 9-of-25 from the field and only 2-of-10 from three-point range. Following several no-calls on his shots, Jokic’s frustration was evident, particularly with the physical play he endured during the game.
Nuggets coach David Adelman commented on Jokic’s emotional response, acknowledging the difference in officiating between near the basket and other areas of the court. “I know why he’s frustrated. I can feel his frustration with all the contact out there,” he remarked. Adelman also noted that while Jokic’s competitive nature drove his reactions, he must learn to channel that energy appropriately.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will face the Thunder again on March 9, 2024, providing another opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and settle any lingering tensions from this encounter.
