Jokic's Masterclass Leads Nuggets to Thrilling Win Over Thunder

The Denver Nuggets stun the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder with a dramatic comeback win in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinals series.

Nikola Jokic delivered an impressive 42-point performance, and Aaron Gordon hit a clutch 25-foot three-pointer with just four seconds left, leading the Denver Nuggets to a thrilling 121-119 win over the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinals series.

NIKOLA JOKIĆ WAS SPECTACULAR IN GAME 1 🤯🔥

🃏 42 PTS (26 in 2H)
🃏 22 REB
🃏 6 AST
🃏 2 BLK

Only the fourth player to record 40/20/5 in the playoffs in NBA history! pic.twitter.com/fABhE9ZIbw

— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2025

Gordon's game-winning shot came after the Thunder had led by as many as 14 points in the third quarter, showcasing the Nuggets' resilience and determination. The dramatic victory marked a strong start for Denver, with Jokic demonstrating his exceptional skills, scoring 18 points in the fourth quarter despite playing with foul trouble.

Key Highlights of the Game:

• Nikola Jokic's Performance: 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists
• Aaron Gordon's Game-Winner: A 25-foot three-pointer with 4 seconds remaining
• Russell Westbrook's Contribution: 18 points off the bench for the Nuggets
• Alex Caruso's Impact: 20 points, 6 assists, and 5 steals for the Thunder

The series now shifts to Game 2, scheduled for Wednesday, with the Nuggets looking to build on their momentum.

The Thunder maintained a double-digit lead for much of the fourth quarter, but their advantage disappeared after Nikola Jokic's dominant performance in the final frame. Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP, scored 18 points in the quarter, finishing the game with 42 points.

Jokic's impressive stats included 22 rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and a steal, showcasing his all-around dominance on the court.

Oklahoma City's chances were dashed when forward Chet Holmgren missed two crucial free throws with 10 seconds left, despite his team holding a narrow 119-118 lead. Denver capitalized on the rebound, launching a final attack that culminated in Gordon's winning three-pointer.

Denver interim coach David Adelman praised Aaron Gordon's all-around performance, which included 22 points and 14 rebounds. “I'm looking at ball-handling, responsibilities, leadership - he is a Denver Nugget, the soul of our team,” Adelman said. “So cool to see him have a moment like that.”

GOT IT DONE#MileHighPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/jpdtUKlPkr

— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) May 6, 2025

Aaron Gordon attributed the Nuggets' win to the team's calmness under pressure. “A lot of guys stepped up,” he said. “We had poise and a belief that we were going to win no matter the circumstances.”

Gordon and Nikola Jokic were supported by Jamal Murray's 21 points and Russell Westbrook's 18 points. For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, while Alex Caruso scored 20 points off the bench. The series continues with Game 2 on Wednesday.