The Washington Wizards achieved one of their most thrilling victories of the season on Saturday, March 15, 2025, upsetting the Denver Nuggets 126-123 in front of a sellout crowd at Ball Arena. The Wizards displayed remarkable tenacity, culminating in a buzzer-beater by guard Jordan Poole from 35 feet away as the clock ticked down to 1.8 seconds.
With only 5.3 seconds left and the score tied, tactical adjustments unfolded on the court. Poole instructed teammate Kyshawn George, who had the ball, to focus solely on getting him the ball, saying, “By any means, just get me the ball.” George responded accordingly, enabling Poole to make the pivotal shot over the outstretched arm of Russell Westbrook, sealing the moment for Washington.
Alex Sarr emerged as the game’s standout player, finishing with career-high statistics of 34 points, six rebounds, and five assists, all pivotal contributions alongside Poole’s 24 points. Both players were instrumental as the Wizards recorded their sixth win out of their last 10 games.
The victory marked the second time the Wizards had triumphed over the Nuggets this season, establishing their ability to compete with top teams, even with a roster positioned to rebuild. Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, showed his prowess with 40 points, 13 rebounds, and nine assists, yet his efforts were not enough to secure the win.
Washington’s players expressed pure joy over the victory, as noted by forward Bub Carrington postgame: “One of our pillars is joy. That was obviously a joyous moment.” The Wizards celebrated the win together, with smiles all around, reflecting their growing chemistry on the court.
Particularly noteworthy was Sarr’s performance against Jokic—a duel many had anticipated, as Sarr had been the No. 2 pick of the 2024 NBA draft and stood more than 60 pounds lighter than the Nuggets’ center. Despite the difference, Sarr matched Jokic nearly shot-for-shot. “He is good,” Jokic remarked. “He shot the ball really well... So I think he has a future in the NBA for sure.” Sarr's capabilities to stretch the floor emerged as instrumental, and many view him as the Wizards’ cornerstone for the future.
Kyshawn George also showcased significant growth, tying Poole for the second-highest score on the team with 19 points. He contributed convincingly to the win with timely shooting, including another 3-pointer which tied the game at 116-116. “That’s a shot everybody wants me, and needs me, to take at this time,” Sarr admitted after his key play.
Despite the excitement of the game, controversy loomed over the officiate's decisions, particularly concerning George being allowed to stay within the paint for over three seconds near the end of the game without being penalized. The NBA later admitted to this officiate error, noting the missed defensive three-second violation but also acknowledging the Wizards' defense as they contested Jokic's shot during the fateful possession.
While the team’s focus lay on enjoying the moment, the strategic wisdom behind their performance cannot be overlooked. With four other teams vying for higher draft positions, including the Utah Jazz—currently holding the worst league record—there is still concern for the Wizards' future placements. This win, rich with emotional stakes and potential, positions the Wizards favorably heading toward the NBA draft.
Reflecting on the match, Poole emphasized the win’s significance for the team's future as well, stating, “It was big for us... it sets us up for next year.” Moments like these are pivotal for the Wizards, not just for securing wins but for laying groundwork for the next season.
With the team's recent rejuvenation largely credited to the additions of veterans such as Khris Middleton, alongside young talents rising to the challenges like George and Sarr, the Wizards are crafting their path forward. Jordan Poole's game-winning three-pointer has joined the narrative of their rebuilding process and has certainly excited the fanbase about what’s to come.
Saturday’s upset defines the spirit of the Wizards: energetic, unyielding, and motivated, fostering hopes of bright seasons yet to come.