Thunder Take 3-2 Lead Over Nuggets in Semifinals

The Oklahoma City Thunder took a 3-2 lead over the Denver Nuggets in their Western Conference semifinal series with a 112-105 win, overcoming a 44-point, 15-rebound performance from Nikola Jokic. Oklahoma City rallied in the fourth quarter, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points and balanced scoring from six teammates in double figures. The Thunder's late-game defense proved decisive, putting the defending champions on the brink of playoff elimination as the series heads back to Colorado for Game 6. Denver struggled offensively beyond Jokic and Jamal Murray, with no other players scoring more than 13 points. Both teams emphasized resilience and focus heading into the next matchup. Separately, the Boston Celtics face uncertainty as they prepare for a crucial game without star Jayson Tatum.