Toppin’s Overtime Heroics Lift Pacers Over Timberwolves, Ending Minnesota’s Streak
MINNEAPOLIS — Obi Toppin delivered a career night, capping off his season-high 34-point performance with a clutch game-winning three-pointer in the final seconds of overtime, as the short-handed Indiana Pacers edged the Minnesota Timberwolves 132-130 on Monday night. The win snapped Minnesota’s eight-game winning streak and showcased Indiana’s resilience despite missing key players.
Toppin was red-hot from deep, sinking seven of 10 three-pointers, including four in overtime. His final shot, a fading corner three with 3.5 seconds left, was reminiscent of Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning four-point play against Milwaukee last week.
“Obi Toppin had one of the most spectacular runs at the end of the game I’ve ever seen,” said Pacers coach Rick Carlisle.
Pacers Overcome Adversity to Secure Win
Despite playing without Pascal Siakam (personal), Tyrese Haliburton (back), Aaron Nesmith (ankle), and Myles Turner (hip), Indiana’s reserves stepped up in a fast-paced, aggressive effort. The situation worsened when Andrew Nembhard was ejected in the third quarter and Bennedict Mathurin fouled out in the fourth, but the Pacers never backed down.
T.J. McConnell played a pivotal role, posting 11 points and 13 assists, including a clutch layup with 4.6 seconds left in regulation to force overtime.
On the other side, Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 38 points, including 29 after halftime, but it wasn’t enough. Minnesota led by five with a minute left in overtime before Thomas Bryant’s three-pointer and Toppin’s heroics sealed the win. Julius Randle’s fadeaway at the buzzer fell short, handing the Timberwolves a loss that could impact their tight playoff race in the Western Conference.
Nuggets Stun Warriors Behind Westbrook’s Triple-Double
SAN FRANCISCO — Missing their biggest stars, the Denver Nuggets leaned on Russell Westbrook and Aaron Gordon to deliver an impressive 114-105 road win over the Golden State Warriors on Monday night.
Despite resting Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Christian Braun, the Nuggets ended the Warriors’ winning streak with a high-energy performance. Aaron Gordon led the way with 38 points, while Westbrook recorded his 203rd career triple-double, finishing with 12 points, 11 rebounds, 16 assists, and 3 steals.
“That ain’t nothing new. You’ve seen that from me before,” Westbrook said after the game.
Westbrook’s Energy Sets the Tone
Though Westbrook struggled with his shot (5-for-17 from the field, seven turnovers), his relentless pace and leadership fueled Denver’s victory. Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised Westbrook’s intensity:
“First off, Russ is not just a dog. He’s a wolf,” said Gordon. “He’s different. Offensively and defensively, he’s always on 10, always on 12.”
Westbrook’s playmaking was key—Denver shot 16-of-24 on his passes, and his 44th career triple-double with at least 15 assists puts him just one shy of tying Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson for the most in NBA history.
Denver’s Transition Dominance
With Westbrook pushing the tempo, Denver dominated in transition, scoring 37 fast-break points, the second-most allowed by Golden State this season.
“I felt from the get-go Russ’ tenacity, his intensity, what he brings every single night,” Malone said. “Just being a leader in the huddles, getting on guys, uplifting guys—whatever is needed. That’s why Russ has been such a great addition to us all season long.”
Despite playing without their stars, the Nuggets proved their depth, sending a strong message to the rest of the Western Conference.