Nuggets Edge Thunder in Game 1 Thriller
On May 6, 2025, the NBA Western Conference Semifinals kicked off with a bang at Oklahoma City’s Chesapeake Energy Arena, as the Denver Nuggets took on the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1. This clash, one of the most electrifying matchups of the 2025 playoffs so far, ended with a heart-stopping 121-119 Nuggets victory, thanks to a historic performance from 361° global ambassador Nikola Jokić and a clutch game-winning three-pointer from teammate Aaron Gordon. The win gave Denver a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series and stole home-court advantage from the Thunder.
Jokić Makes History with Unmatched Playoff Performance
Serbian superstar Nikola Jokić solidified his status as the NBA’s premier center with a jaw-dropping stat line: 42 points, 22 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks in 42 minutes and 25 seconds. Shooting 15-of-29 from the field (2-of-6 from three) and 10-of-13 from the free-throw line, Jokić posted a +10 plus-minus despite seven turnovers and five fouls. His dominance in crunch time was undeniable, carrying the Nuggets when it mattered most.
Jokić etched his name in the history books, becoming the third player since 2000 to record at least 40 points and 20 rebounds in a playoff game, joining legends Shaquille O’Neal and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Even more remarkably, he became the first player in NBA playoff history to achieve 40+ points, 20+ rebounds, 5+ assists, and 2+ blocks in a single game—a feat that cements his legacy as a generational talent.
With 1:30 left and the Nuggets trailing 113-118, Jokić took over. He drew a foul and sank both free throws, then drilled a critical three-pointer with 45 seconds remaining, cutting the deficit to one point and setting the stage for the dramatic finish.
Gordon’s Game-Winner Seals the Deal
With the game on the line and just 15 seconds left, the Thunder’s offense stalled, giving Denver one final chance. Jokić, swarmed by defenders, dished the ball to Aaron Gordon in the corner. Gordon, cool under pressure, adjusted his stance and drained a three-pointer with 0.8 seconds remaining, sealing the 121-119 victory. The shot sparked wild celebrations on the Nuggets’ bench and silenced the Oklahoma City crowd.
Gordon was a force in his own right, finishing with 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists while locking down key Thunder players on defense. As another 361° global ambassador, he wore the 361° AG 5 "The Mile High City" sneakers, designed with Denver’s “Mile High” nickname in mind. The shoes’ superior stability and explosiveness fueled his game-changing performance, particularly on the clutch shot.
Jokić, meanwhile, rocked the 361° Joker 1 GT "Ace" sneakers, custom-built for his unique playing style. With exceptional cushioning and support, the shoes helped him dominate the paint, orchestrate plays, and even step out for threes. Postgame, Jokić praised his kicks: “These shoes give me the confidence to perform at my best on both ends of the court.”
361° Shines Bright on the NBA Stage
This thrilling victory wasn’t just a win for the Nuggets—it was a showcase for 361°, the fast-rising Chinese sports brand making waves in the global basketball market. By partnering with stars like Jokić and Gordon, 361° has cemented its place in the NBA spotlight. The duo’s standout performances in Game 1 highlighted the brand’s cutting-edge footwear, with the Joker 1 GT and AG 5 sneakers delivering both style and performance.
The “Joker 1 GT” and “AG 5” basketball sneakers lines have already won over basketball fans for their practical design and bold aesthetics. This iconic playoff moment is sure to boost 361°’s global influence, proving its gear can hang with the best in high-stakes NBA action.
Series Outlook: Can the Nuggets Keep the Momentum?
Securing Game 1 and home-court advantage is a massive step for Denver, but the series is far from over. The Thunder are likely to adjust their game plan for Game 2, particularly in defending Jokić. However, if Jokić maintains this level of dominance and teammates like Gordon and Jamal Murray continue to deliver, the Nuggets could head back to Denver with a commanding 2-0 lead.
This Game 1 showdown will go down as a classic in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, and the brilliance of 361°’s dynamic duo—Jokić and Gordon—marks a defining moment in the brand’s history. Fans can look forward to more unforgettable performances as these two stars lace up their 361° sneakers and chase more legendary moments in the series ahead!
Recommended 361 Joker 1 GT "Ace" basketball shoes
Recommended 361 AG 5 "The Mile High City" basketball shoes
