Nikola Jokić's 'Despicable Me' Costume Sparks Denver Nuggets' Victory Against Los Angeles Lakers

Nikola Jokić made a grand entrance on Saturday, wearing a costume that caught everyone's attention. He not only stood out but also played a key role in the Denver Nuggets' victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of their NBA playoff series.

The Serbian basketball star showed up at the Ball Arena dressed as Gru from the movie "Despicable Me." This was a reference to a teaser for the movie's fourth installment, where Jokić humorously seeks therapy for his unique outfits being compared to Gru's and jokes about the Minions thinking he's their boss.

On the court, Jokić had an impressive game, almost achieving a triple-double by scoring 32 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and dishing out seven assists. This performance helped the Nuggets secure a 114-103 victory over the Lakers, giving them a 1-0 lead in the playoff series.

Despite a sluggish start where they fell behind by 10 points in the second quarter, the Nuggets rallied back. LeBron James of the Lakers scored 19 points in the first half, putting his team in the lead temporarily.

Referee Ashley Moyer-Gleich signals during the second half of an NBA basketball game between the Detroit Pistons and the Boston Celtics, Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

During the second half of an NBA basketball game between the Detroit Pistons and the Boston Celtics, Referee Ashley Moyer-Gleich can be seen signaling. The game took place on Monday, February 6, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Carlos Osorio/AP

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Ashley Moyer-Gleich has made history by becoming the second woman ever to be chosen to officiate in the NBA playoffs. The Nuggets found their momentum towards the end of the second quarter and dominated the game with a 13-point run in the third quarter. They maintained their lead in the fourth quarter to secure the win.

"We're staying put. This is the playoffs," said Denver coach Michael Malone to reporters after the game. "No team in the playoffs walks away just because they're down by 12 early on. We still have fight in us and we believe we can do better than we did in the beginning."

Anthony Davis scored 32 points, grabbed 14 rebounds, and dished out five assists for the Lakers, while James contributed 27 points. Jamal Murray also played well for the Nuggets, putting up 22 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists.

In other Western Conference news, the Minnesota Timberwolves won against the Phoenix Suns with a score of 120-95 in the first game of their playoff series.

Moving over to the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Orlando Magic 97-83, while the New York Knicks emerged victorious over the Philadelphia 76ers with a score of 111-104.

Editor's P/S:

's playful entrance in a Gru costume added an element of lightheartedness to the intense playoff atmosphere. His impressive on-court performance, nearly securing a triple-double, was a testament to his versatility and dominance on the court. The Denver Nuggets' victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 highlighted their determination to overcome early setbacks and showcased Jokić's leadership.

The article provides an overview of the first round of the NBA playoffs, including notable performances and team wins. The Western Conference witnessed the Minnesota Timberwolves' triumph over the Phoenix Suns, while the Eastern Conference saw victories for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks. These results set the stage for exciting match-ups in the upcoming games, as each team aims to advance in the tournament.