The Boston Celtics’ impeccable 27-match unbeaten home run came to an end after losing 100-102 against the Denver Nuggets at the TD Garden Arena on Friday.
The Celtics had kicked off the season with a 20-0 record at home, maintaining a 27-game home win streak dating back to the previous season.
Boston's last home defeat occurred in a double-overtime loss to the New York Knicks on March 5, 2023.
The 20-0 start still stands as the best in Celtics history, and their 32-10 record remains the best in the NBA.
Jamal Murray scored 35 points while Nikola Jokic finished with 34 as the Nuggets held on to hand the Celtics their first home loss of the season with a spectacular all-round display.
Jokic contributed 12 rebounds and nine assists, aiding the defending NBA champions in ending the Celtics' streak of 20 consecutive home victories.
This matchup marked the first of two regular-season meetings between teams aspiring to represent their respective conferences in the NBA Finals, with the next game scheduled in Denver on March 7.
Jayson Tatum had an opportunity to tie the game in the closing seconds but missed a one-legged fadeaway off the rim.
Tatum finished with 22 points and eight rebounds, while Derrick White had 24 points, and Kristaps Porzingis added 21.
Jokic, the two-time NBA MVP, took advantage of a Celtics defence that chose not to double-team him for most of the game.
He showcased efficiency, connecting on 14 of 22 field attempts, and remained effective in facilitating for his teammates, registering nine assists in the first three quarters.
The game featured high energy throughout, with 13 lead changes and eight ties.