Nikola Jokic becomes first center with 10 playoff triple-doubles / News - Basketnews.com

Nikola Jokic put up 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists in a Game 5 win against the Suns, becoming the 8th player in NBA history and the first center with 10 career playoff triple-doubles.

Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con/Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con/Scanpix

Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic stepped up when it mattered the most in Game 5 against the Phoenix Suns.

Player of the Game EFF 40 Nikola Jokic Points 29 Accuracy 12-20 Rebounds 13 Assists 12

In a convincing 118-102 victory, Jokic finished the game with 29 points (10/17 2PT, 2/3 3PT, 3/5 FT), 13 rebounds, 12 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, and 4 turnovers, giving the Nuggets a 3-2 lead in the series.

Jokic became the 8th player in NBA history and the first center with 10 career playoff triple-doubles.

"We were aggressive on both ends of the floor," Jokic told TNT after the game. "We pushed them out of their spots, even the post-ups. But they are so talented, that's why it's so difficult to guard them."

"You're right, [we played with] desperation in the 1st quarter. Then, the 2nd quarter was kind of getting back into the game, but 3rd and 4th quarter was our basketball. I think we dominated the game in the second half," Jokic added.

Game 6 will take place in Phoenix on Thursday at 10 PM ET.

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