2013 NBA Playoffs: Nuggets Keep Season Alive, Beat Warriors 107-100 In Game 5 [VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS]
Andre Iguodala recorded 25 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists while Ty Lawson chipped in with 19 points and 10 assists as the Denver Nuggets lived up to fight another day following their 107-100 win over the Golden State Warriors in Game 5 of their Western Conference first round series at Pepsi Center on Tuesday.
After getting overwhelmed by the Warriors explosive outside game, the Nuggets did their homework well as they were able to contain the shooters of the opposing team.
Stephen Curry, who was red-hot from beyond the arc in the first four games of the series, was held down to 15 points on 7-for-19 shooting and 1-for-7 from the three-point line. Moreover, the Nuggets made an excellent job boxing out Andrew Bogut and other Warriors big men, racking up 46 rebounds - 15 of which were offensive rebounds.
Denver head coach George Karl also had a key adjustment in Game 5 by inserting Javale McGee into the starting lineup instead of their usual small-ball starting lineup in the first four games of the series.
McGee was a difference-maker right away, using his length and athleticism to make things tough for Golden State in the interior. Denver, meanwhile, pushed the ball more often and knocked down jumpers with better consistency.
After controlling the lead in the first half, the Nuggets faced a stiffer challenge from the Warriors in the second half but the home team managed to sustain their composure and secure a much-needed win at home.
Harrison Barnes continued his phenomenal postseason play, tallying 23 points along with 9 rebounds to lead the Warriors in scoring. Klay Thompson added 19 markers while Jarret Jack had 20 points and 5 dimes in losing effort.
The Nuggets now have a great opportunity to tie the series at 3-3, though they have to do it at the Oracle Arena in Thursday's Game 6.
Join the Conversation