The captivating first-round playoff series between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Clippers culminated in a truly spectacular finish on Saturday night. The game ended in one of the most astonishing ways imaginable, with Aaron Gordon sinking a game-winning buzzer-beater dunk to secure a 101-99 victory for the Nuggets, leveling the series.
Denver held a significant lead of up to 22 points early in the final quarter, but the Clippers mounted a fierce comeback, tying the game with under 10 seconds remaining. With the score knotted, the Nuggets` final possession went to Nikola Jokic, whose contested fadeaway attempt missed the mark.
However, Aaron Gordon was perfectly positioned to grab the airborne rebound and emphatically slammed it through the hoop just as the final buzzer blared.
On the court, the referees immediately ruled the basket good. Following an extended review, this call was confirmed, as replays showed Gordon released the ball mere milliseconds before the backboard`s red light illuminated.
Gordon contributed 14 points, six rebounds, and five assists, ensuring that the Nuggets capitalized on a phenomenal outing by Nikola Jokic, who posted an impressive stat line of 36 points, 21 rebounds, and eight assists.
With this victory, the series is now tied at two games apiece and will return to Denver for the crucial Game 5 on Tuesday.
Jasper Hawthorne