NBA 2K26 Summer League: DaRon Holmes II Dominates Nuggets vs Clippers
Holmes Shines as Nuggets Edge Clippers in Summer League Thriller
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Denver Nuggets 81, Los Angeles Clippers 76
DaRon Holmes II delivered a dominant performance, amassing 19 points and 17 rebounds, to lead the Denver Nuggets to an 81-76 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in a hard-fought NBA 2K26 Summer League contest at the Thomas & Mack Center on Thursday. The win, Denver’s first of the Summer League campaign, saw them maintain a lead for much of the game, though the Clippers mounted a furious late comeback.
Nuggets Secure Wire-to-Wire Victory Despite Late Clippers Surge
The Denver Nuggets controlled the tempo for the majority of the matchup,building a critically important lead that stretched to as many as 25 points in the third quarter. However,the Los Angeles Clippers refused to go down quietly,orchestrating a dramatic 13-0 run in the final four minutes to narrow the deficit to a mere three points. A potential game-tying shot in the closing seconds ultimately fell short,sealing the victory for the Nuggets.
Denver’s defensive intensity was a key factor, as they recorded 13 steals compared to the Clippers’ seven. This disruptive play translated into a significant advantage in fastbreak points, where the Nuggets outscored their opponents 16-4. Furthermore, Denver showcased superior efficiency from the free-throw line, converting 13 of their 15 attempts (88%), while Los Angeles managed 13 of 18 (72%). The Nuggets also asserted their dominance on the boards, outrebounding the Clippers 47-36.
Key performances Fuel Nuggets’ Triumph
DaRon Holmes II was the undisputed star for the Nuggets, stuffing the stat sheet with 19 points, a game-high 17 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. His all-around contribution was instrumental in securing the win.
Spencer Jones provided crucial offensive support,pouring in 17 points to go along with six rebounds,three steals,and two blocks.
The Nuggets’ bench also made a significant impact, led by Curtis Jones, who contributed 13 points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Tamar Bates added 11 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals, showcasing the depth of Denver’s talent.
Clippers’ Late Rally Falls Short
Despite the loss, the los Angeles Clippers demonstrated resilience and offensive firepower.
Jordan Miller led the Clippers’ charge with an extraordinary double-double, recording 23 points, 14 rebounds, and four assists.Patrick Baldwin Jr. was a force on both ends of the court,tallying 16 points,six rebounds,three steals,and three blocks.
Cam Christie also chipped in with 16 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals, while Trentyn Flowers added 12 points, three rebounds, and a team-high five assists.
Looking Ahead: Consolation Games on Saturday
Both the Denver Nuggets (1-3) and the Los angeles Clippers (3-1) will conclude their Summer League schedules on Saturday with consolation games against opponents yet to be persistent.The nuggets will aim to build on this momentum, while the Clippers will look to finish their Summer League campaign on a high note.
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