In an electrifying performance, Nikola Jokic scored 42 points and grabbed 22 rebounds, while Aaron Gordon sank a pivotal three-pointer in the final seconds, clinching a dramatic 121-119 victory for the Denver Nuggets against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder during Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series.

Oklahoma City, without timeouts remaining, failed to make a last-ditch shot as time ran out.

During the game, Russell Westbrook, starting against his former club for the first time in the playoffs, assisted on Gordon’s winning shot.

Gordon finished with 22 points and 14 rebounds, contributing to the Nuggets’ success following a hard-fought seven-game series against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, while teammate Alex Caruso supported with 20 points, 6 assists, and 5 steals. The Thunder, who had not played in over a week after sweeping the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round, looked to make a strong opening but fell short against a determined Nuggets team.

This thrilling match sets the stage for an exciting playoff series ahead.