In a nail-biting finish that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Denver Nuggets 112-105 in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals. The Thunder’s stunning performance propelled them to a 3-2 series lead, leaving the Nuggets scrambling for answers as they head into a must-win situation.

With just over two minutes left in the game, the Thunder found themselves down by three points. However, star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stepped up in a big way, hitting a crucial three-pointer and drawing a foul to put OKC ahead. The crowd erupted as Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his clutch shooting ability, sealing the momentum for the Thunder.

Denver struggled to answer back, managing only one field goal in the final minutes. Nikola Jokić, who had been dominant with 44 points and 15 rebounds, fought valiantly to keep his team in contention but ultimately was unable to secure the win. The Nuggets’ late-game execution faltered, resulting in missed opportunities that allowed Oklahoma City to maintain their lead.

As the clock wound down, the Thunder’s defense held firm against Denver’s desperate attempts to score. Murray’s shot attempts fell short, and with 22 seconds remaining, the Nuggets were forced to foul. The Thunder capitalized on their free throws, extending their lead and ensuring victory.

This thrilling finish not only showcases the Thunder’s resilience under pressure but also raises questions for the Nuggets about their ability to bounce back in Game 6. With the series now tilted in favor of Oklahoma City, all eyes will be on Denver as they prepare for a critical matchup that could decide their playoff fate. The excitement of this series is palpable, and fans can expect nothing less than an epic showdown ahead.