The Denver Nuggets won Game 4 of their opening 2025 NBA playoff series with the Los Angeles Clippers on the road on Saturday night in absolutely jaw-dropping fashion. It was the dunk heard around the world as Denver forward Aaron Gordon got a quite literal last-second dunk to give the Nuggets a thrilling 101-99 victory and tie the playoff series up at 2-2. What's even more incredible is ESPN's Tim Bontemps reported that this is the very first game-winning, buzzer-beating dunk in NBA playoff history. Woah! Take a victory lap, Aaron Gordon. This is one of the coolest finishes in NBA postseason history. Nuggets fans will be talking about this one for years to come.
In the heart of Inglewood, California, at the Intuit Dome, the atmosphere was electric as the Nuggets and Clippers battled fiercely. The stakes couldn't have been higher, with the series tied at 1-2, and both teams eager to seize momentum. As the clock wound down, it was clear that the game would come down to the wire. With just seconds left on the clock, the Nuggets executed a play that would etch itself into the annals of NBA history.
Aaron Gordon, known for his explosive athleticism, soared above the rim to deliver a thunderous dunk that not only secured the win but also made history. "I just knew I had to go up and get it. It was now or never," Gordon said after the game, reflecting on the monumental moment. His teammates were just as ecstatic, with Christian Braun humorously noting, "I did actually go for it. I actually ruined a couple of Aaron’s really cool pictures. But I did jump. He jumped a lot higher than I did."
The Nuggets had been resilient throughout the game, battling back from a deficit and showcasing their depth and skill. Michael Porter Jr. played a pivotal role, claiming he was the mastermind behind the winning play. "I give full credit to myself, actually," he quipped, trying to keep a straight face. "I went over and whispered to Joker. I said, ‘Hey, shoot it just so we have enough time to get a tip.’ And then AG tipped it in. So I give myself full credit."
As the final seconds ticked away, Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets' star center, took a shot that initially seemed off target, but it set up Gordon's game-winning dunk perfectly. Jokic, reflecting on the moment, recalled a similar play from a 2010 EuroLeague semifinal, saying, "It was remarkably similar to Denver’s play." His encyclopedic knowledge of basketball history shone through as he drew parallels to past moments that have defined the sport.
Jamal Murray, who was positioned perfectly to witness the action unfold, shared his thoughts on the thrilling finish. "I had one in high school. It was from half-court. Same kind of thing. But I don’t think I’ve seen one that close," he said, reminiscing about his own buzzer-beater. Murray's excitement was palpable as he watched Gordon's dunk unfold before his eyes.
The aftermath of the game was filled with jubilation and reflection. Nuggets fans erupted in cheers, celebrating not just the victory but the historic nature of Gordon's dunk. Social media was abuzz with highlights and commentary, with many declaring it one of the greatest plays in NBA playoff history. The victory also served as a reminder of the Nuggets' resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
As the series continues, both teams will need to regroup and refocus. The Clippers, who had been in control for much of the game, will undoubtedly be looking to bounce back in Game 5. Meanwhile, the Nuggets have found new life with their historic win, and they will carry this momentum into the next matchup.
With the series now tied at 2-2, the stakes are higher than ever. Both teams will be vying for the upper hand as they head into Game 5, which promises to be another thrilling encounter. Fans can expect a fierce battle as the Nuggets and Clippers fight for a chance to advance in the playoffs.
In the grand scheme of the NBA playoffs, moments like Aaron Gordon's dunk serve as a reminder of why we love this game. The drama, the excitement, and the sheer unpredictability of basketball make it a sport like no other. As the playoffs progress, each game will bring new stories, new heroes, and unforgettable moments.
As the Nuggets look to build on their momentum, all eyes will be on them to see if they can continue their playoff run and make a deep push towards the championship. With players like Gordon, Jokic, and Murray leading the charge, the Nuggets have the talent and tenacity to make a significant impact this postseason. Fans are left wondering: what other surprises await as the playoffs unfold?
