Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma Thunder Game 1 Playoffs

In a thrilling Game 1 of the 2025 Western Conference Semifinals, the Denver Nuggets staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder 121–119, seizing home-court advantage in dramatic fashion.

Nikola Jokić led the charge for Denver with a historic performance, recording 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists. His dominant play in the final quarter, where he scored 16 points, was pivotal in overcoming a 14-point deficit. Jokić’s stat line places him alongside Shaquille O’Neal as the only players in NBA playoff history to achieve at least 40 points and 22 rebounds in a game.

The game reached its climax when Aaron Gordon, who contributed 22 points and 14 rebounds, sank a decisive three-pointer with just 3.6 seconds remaining, securing the victory for the Nuggets. Russell Westbrook, returning to Oklahoma City, played a crucial role off the bench with 18 points and delivered the assist for Gordon’s game-winner.

For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a strong performance with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. However, the team struggled in the closing moments, managing only one field goal in the final minutes.

The series continues with Game 2 on Wednesday in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder will look to even the series before it shifts to Denver.