Aaron Gordon’s Dunk of the Year Powers Nuggets’ Miracle Comeback in Game 1 vs Thunder (2025 NBA Western Semifinals)
Introduction
In one of the most electrifying playoff openers in recent NBA memory, the Denver Nuggets staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder 121–119 in Game 1 of the 2025 Western Conference Semifinals. Fueled by a poster-worthy dunk by Aaron Gordon over rookie Chet Holmgren and a dominant all-around performance by Nikola Jokic, Denver overcame a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit in the closing minutes of the game. The Thunder’s late-game decisions and missed opportunities allowed Denver to steal the victory on the road, setting the stage for an epic series.
First Half: Thunder Set the Tone
The Thunder came out aggressive and disciplined. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander set the tempo early with precision drives and mid-range control. Holmgren provided spacing and rim protection, while Lu Dort’s defense smothered Denver’s perimeter scorers. Despite a strong second quarter from Nikola Jokic, who began to find his rhythm inside the arc, the Thunder went into halftime with a 60–55 lead, backed by balanced scoring and transition efficiency.
Third Quarter: OKC Surges Ahead
Oklahoma City extended its lead in the third period with momentum plays from Giddey and Holmgren. Holmgren’s defense at the rim stood out as he recorded multiple blocks, and the Nuggets struggled with shooting inefficiency. Michael Porter Jr. and Caldwell-Pope failed to connect from deep, and Denver’s offense stalled. At the end of the third, OKC held a 98–85 advantage, with the Nuggets looking fatigued and disoriented.
Fourth Quarter: Denver’s Rally Begins
The Nuggets flipped a switch. With Jokic controlling the offensive flow and Russell Westbrook injecting energy off the bench, Denver launched a stunning 19–6 run. Defensive rotations tightened, and turnovers by the Thunder began to mount. Jokic scored timely baskets, and Gordon began to impose himself physically on both ends. The game narrowed to a single possession as the final minutes ticked away.
Aaron Gordon’s Dunk: A Game-Changing Moment
Arguably the most memorable moment of the 2025 playoffs so far occurred when Aaron Gordon took a lob pass from Westbrook and delivered a thunderous, one-handed dunk over Holmgren. The 7'1" rookie rotated late to contest but was powerless to stop Gordon’s leap. The dunk not only ignited the Denver bench and silenced the Oklahoma City crowd, it also shifted momentum squarely in the Nuggets’ favor.
Final Minute Drama: Strategy and Execution
With the Thunder up by three points and 18 seconds on the clock, Coach Mark Daigneault made a controversial decision to intentionally foul. Gordon hit one of two free throws, and on the next OKC possession, Holmgren was fouled but missed both free throws. That left Denver with a final chance. Westbrook again facilitated, this time finding Gordon in the corner for a contested three. Gordon nailed the shot, giving Denver the lead with 3.1 seconds remaining. SGA’s final heave missed, sealing the Nuggets’ win.
Nikola Jokic’s Leadership and Legacy
Jokic delivered one of the most efficient and commanding playoff performances of his career: 42 points, 22 rebounds, 8 assists, and complete control of the game’s pace. In a timeout, cameras caught him instructing teammates and drawing plays, highlighting his role as a floor general. Analysts praised his combination of scoring, vision, and leadership, likening him to a mix of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.
Holmgren’s Tough Learning Moment
Chet Holmgren had a strong early performance but struggled in the clutch. His missed free throws and inability to prevent Gordon’s dunk marred an otherwise promising outing. The rookie’s resilience will be tested as he faces immense pressure to respond in Game 2.
Fan and Media Reaction
The dunk went viral within minutes, trending worldwide on social platforms. Fans compared it to Vince Carter’s iconic Olympic dunk. Pundits praised Denver’s poise under pressure and criticized OKC’s late-game strategy, particularly the decision to foul intentionally while leading.
Looking Ahead to Game 2
The Nuggets now lead the series 1–0. For OKC, adjustments are critical — both tactically and mentally. Denver will seek to maintain momentum, while the Thunder aim to bounce back and avoid falling into a 0–2 hole.