Thunder Strike Late to Stun Nuggets, Take 3–2 Series Lead

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a pivotal 112–105 victory over the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals on May 13, 2025, at the Paycom Center. This win gives the Thunder a 3–2 lead in the best-of-seven series, positioning them one win away from advancing to the Western Conference Finals.Reuters+3The Times of India+3YouTube+3 Reuters+1The Times of India+1

📊 Final Score

Team	1Q	2Q	3Q	4Q	Final
Denver Nuggets	28	28	30	19	105
Oklahoma City Thunder	27	27	24	34	112

🔍 Game Breakdown

First Half:

The Thunder started strong with a 12–2 run, but the Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokić, responded effectively. Denver built an 11-point lead in the second quarter, but Oklahoma City closed the half on a 9–0 run, narrowing the deficit to 56–54 at halftime. The Times of India+2ESPN.com+2Denver Stiffs+2

Third Quarter:

Denver extended their lead to 86–78 by the end of the third quarter, with Jokić and Jamal Murray contributing significantly.

Fourth Quarter:

The Thunder mounted a comeback in the final quarter, outscoring the Nuggets 34–19. Luguentz Dort hit three critical three-pointers, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, along with Jalen Williams, made key shots down the stretch to secure the win. Reuters+1ESPN.com+1

⭐ Key Performers

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC): 31 points, 7 assists, 12-of-23 shooting.
Jalen Williams (OKC): 18 points, 9 rebounds. Reuters+2ESPN.com+2ESPN.com+2
Luguentz Dort (OKC): Three pivotal three-pointers in the fourth quarter.
Nikola Jokić (DEN): 44 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, 17-of-25 shooting. ESPN.com
Jamal Murray (DEN): 28 points, though on 10-of-27 shooting. ESPN.com

🧠 Expert Analysis

The Thunder’s resilience and depth were on full display as they overcame a late-game deficit. Their ability to execute under pressure, coupled with strategic ball movement and clutch shooting, proved decisive. Conversely, the Nuggets’ reliance on a shorter rotation may have contributed to fatigue, impacting their performance in the closing minutes. Reuters

📺 Game Highlights

For a comprehensive look at the game’s key moments, watch the full Game 5 highlights below:

🗓️ Next Up

Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025, in Denver. The Thunder have an opportunity to close out the series, while the Nuggets aim to force a decisive Game 7.