Nuggets Stage Incredible Comeback to Stun Lakers 101-99; Epiphanny Prince Announces Retirement
The Denver Nuggets orchestrated a stunning comeback, erasing a 20-point deficit to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 101-99 in a thrilling Game 2 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series.
With Jamal Murray’s basket, the reigning champions completed a 20-point comeback, taking a 2-0 lead in the series.
Denver now leads the series 2-0 after Murray, who had trouble shooting the entire game, dribbled to the baseline and blasted a 16-footer over Anthony Davis’s outstretched hand.
After Michael Porter Jr.’s 3-pointer with 1:15 remaining knotted the score, LeBron James’ steal and dunk put Los Angeles ahead 95-92. Murray then took over. In response to Los Angeles baskets, he made two free throws and a 20-footer. With 16.3 seconds remaining, James missed a 3-pointer, which set up Murray’s heroics.
For the Nuggets, who have defeated the Lakers in ten straight meetings during the regular season and postseason combined, Nikola Jokic had 27 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists. Murray shot 9 out of 24 for 20 points in the final frame.
Despite only scoring two baskets in the last 22 minutes, Davis finished with 32 points and 11 rebounds. James contributed eight rebounds, twelve assists, and 26 points.
Knicks 104, 76ers 101
With 13.1 seconds remaining, host New York Knicks’ Donte DiVincenzo made the game-winning 3-pointer. The team went on to score the last eight points in the final 28 seconds, shocking the Philadelphia 76ers and taking a 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference first-round series.
The 76ers went on a 19-6 run to overcome an eight-point deficit, and with 47.3 seconds remaining, Kyle Lowry split a pair of free throws to give the team a 101-96 lead. With 27.4 seconds remaining, Jalen Brunson of New York, who had missed his previous five 3-point tries, converted a shooter’s roll on a corner 3-pointer.
Josh Hart ended with 21 points and 15 rebounds for the Knicks, while Brunson finished with 24 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Joel Embiid scored 34 points and pulled down 10 rebounds, while Tyrese Maxey contributed 35 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds in a losing effort.
Cavaliers 96, Magic 86
Donovan Mitchell led Cleveland to a victory over visiting Orlando with a game-high 23 points and eight rebounds, while Jarrett Allen grabbed a career-high 20 rebounds.
In a best-of-seven Eastern Conference first-round playoff series, the Cavaliers, who never trailed, jumped out to a 2-0 lead behind 17 points from Evan Mobley and 16 from Allen.
The Magic, who had 17 turnovers, were led by Paolo Banchero’s 21 points and Franz Wagner’s 18 points and 7 rebounds.
Epiphanny Prince Announces Retirement: A Look Back At Her Remarkable 14-Year WNBA Career
Epiphanny Prince, the renowned basketball guard, recently bid farewell to her illustrious 14-season WNBA journey. This announcement comes as a testament to her impactful legacy and contributions to the sport.
Throughout her career, Prince showcased remarkable talent, averaging 10.7 points, 2.5 assists, and 1.4 steals in 315 games across teams like Chicago, Las Vegas, Seattle, and New York. Her achievements include two All-Star appearances and a career-best 18.1 points per game in 2012.
Prince’s journey began with a groundbreaking decision to turn professional early, foregoing her senior year and gaining invaluable experience in European leagues before entering the WNBA draft. This bold move set the stage for a remarkable career filled with accolades and memorable moments.
Notably, Prince’s impact transcended national borders as she played for the Russian national team, striving to secure spots in prestigious tournaments like the world championships and Olympics. Although the team fell short, her dedication and passion for the game never wavered.
Her time in the WNBA saw her lead teams to significant milestones, from Eastern Conference Finals appearances to a triumphant WNBA title with the Seattle Storm in 2020. Her return to New York for her final season added a sentimental touch to her retirement, symbolizing a full-circle journey for the basketball icon.
Epiphanny Prince‘s retirement marks the end of an era in women’s basketball, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and sportsmanship that will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
