Nuggets Rally Past Thunder in Game 1 Thriller

The Denver Nuggets overcame a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder 121-119 in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series. Nikola Jokic led Denver with 42 points and 22 rebounds, overcoming foul trouble and a flagrant foul. Aaron Gordon hit the game-winning 3-pointer in the final seconds, assisted by Russell Westbrook, who was playing his first playoff game in Oklahoma City as an opponent. Jamal Murray contributed 21 points as the Nuggets finished the game on a decisive 19-6 run. For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tallied 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Alex Caruso added 20 points. Denver capitalized on two missed free throws by Chet Holmgren in the closing moments, seizing the series lead as Oklahoma City looks to regroup.