Wed May 07 21:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Nuggets Steal Game 1 from Thunder in Western Conference Semifinals Thriller

**Oklahoma City, OK –** Aaron Gordon delivered another clutch performance, sinking a game-winning three-pointer with 2.8 seconds left to secure a 121-119 victory for the Denver Nuggets over the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of their Western Conference Semifinals matchup. This marks Gordon’s second game-winning shot of the playoffs, following a crucial dunk in the first round.

The win stunned the Thunder, who boasted a 68-win regular season and a first-round sweep. Despite their dominant regular season, OKC appeared fatigued, struggling in the final moments and committing crucial fouls. Nikola Jokić, despite foul trouble in the final 18 minutes, led the Nuggets with a strong performance, showcasing his championship pedigree. He finished with 18 points in the fourth quarter. Gordon added 22 points and 14 rebounds to his game-winning shot.

While the Nuggets struggled from three-point range (31%) and Michael Porter Jr. had an off night (2 points), their experience and clutch play proved decisive. The Thunder’s inability to close out the game highlighted a lack of playoff experience, particularly evident in Chet Holmgren’s missed free throws. The Thunder’s defense, bolstered by Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren to counter Jokić, managed to frustrate him at times but ultimately couldn’t contain the Nuggets’ star power.

Russell Westbrook, playing against his former team, provided a significant contribution off the bench for Denver with 18 points and two key assists, one of which set up Gordon’s game-winner. Alex Caruso, acquired by the Thunder last summer, had a solid performance with 20 points, five steals, two blocks, and six assists, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Denver’s resilience.

The Nuggets, playing their eighth game in 16 days, displayed remarkable endurance, but their limited depth could become a factor as the series progresses. The intensity and physical demands of the playoffs are a concern, especially for a team relying heavily on their starting five. The series continues with Game 2 on Wednesday.

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