ESPN Confirmed: Denver Advances to Face Top-Seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Conference Semi-Finals

ESPN Confirmed: Denver Advances to Face Top-Seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in Conference Semi-Finals

The Denver Nuggets have officially punched their ticket to the Western Conference Semi-Finals, where they will face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. ESPN confirmed the matchup after Denver closed out their first-round series with a decisive Game 6 victory, continuing their strong postseason run and setting up what promises to be an electrifying showdown between two of the West’s most dynamic teams.

Denver’s journey through the first round showcased their depth, resilience, and championship pedigree. Led by two-time MVP Nikola Jokić, the Nuggets displayed their offensive versatility and defensive toughness, winning key games on the road and fending off a competitive opponent in tightly contested matchups. Jokić, as expected, was the engine of Denver’s success—controlling the game with his elite passing, scoring, and rebounding. He was supported by the strong play of Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon, who all contributed crucial moments throughout the series.

Now, Denver turns its attention to the Oklahoma City Thunder, a young and hungry squad that finished the regular season with the best record in the Western Conference. Led by MVP finalist Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder have taken the league by storm this year with their high-tempo offense and stifling defense. OKC dominated their own first-round series, sweeping their opponent in four games and earning extra rest ahead of the semifinals.

This upcoming series between Denver and Oklahoma City promises to be one of the most compelling matchups of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. It features a contrast in experience and style—the reigning champions versus the upstart No. 1 seed. Denver brings a veteran roster with postseason success, while Oklahoma City boasts youthful energy and a deep, talented bench.

Key matchups to watch include Nikola Jokić versus Chet Holmgren in the paint, as well as the backcourt battle between Jamal Murray and Gilgeous-Alexander. The chess match between head coaches Michael Malone and Mark Daigneault will also be pivotal in determining how each team adjusts as the series unfolds.

For the Nuggets, the goal is clear: defend their championship and prove they’re still the team to beat in the West. For the Thunder, it’s a chance to make a statement, continue their dream season, and move one step closer to the NBA Finals.

Game 1 is set to tip off later this week in Oklahoma City, where a raucous home crowd will be ready to welcome the defending champs. With both teams playing at an elite level, basketball fans are in for a thrilling series that could very well go the distance.

Will the seasoned Nuggets continue their title defense, or will the rising Thunder seize the moment and advance? The stage is set, and the spotlight is bright. Let the battle for the West begin.

Are you rooting for Denver’s experience or OKC’s rising star power?