Oklahoma City Thunder eliminate Denver Nuggets to reach 2025 Western Conference Finals
![Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder dominate the second half en route to the Western Conference Finals. [photo credit: OKC Thunder Instagram]](http://ourdailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/500084039_1268102971353859_2609943509690284195_n-e1747608186296.jpg)
The Oklahoma City Thunder are officially headed to the 2025 Western Conference Finals after overwhelming the Denver Nuggets with speed, defense, and grit.
Despite falling behind by 11 in the first quarter, the Thunder exploded for a 39-20 second-quarter run to grab a 60-46 halftime lead.
Things got chippy in the third quarter when Aaron Gordon was called for a flagrant-1 foul for elbowing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the face. Gilgeous-Alexander calmly hit both free throws, and Jalen Williams followed with a quick jumper to make it 66-46.
The loudest moment came when Cason Wallace broke free on a fast break and dunked right over Nikola Jokic, sending the home crowd into chaos. The Thunder closed the third quarter with a 97-72 lead and cruised to the win.
With the victory, the Oklahoma City Thunder eliminated the Denver Nuggets and advanced to the 2025 Western Conference Finals, showing they are serious contenders for the title.
