The 2025 NBA Playoffs delivered high-stakes drama as both the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors emerged victorious in their respective Game 7s, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals. 

Nuggets survive Clippers

The Denver Nuggets showcased their championship pedigree by defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 120–101 in Game 7 of their first-round series. All the Nuggets’ five starters scored in double figures, with Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun leading the way with 22 points and 21 points, respectively. Nikola Jokić had 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double, for another superb performance.

Denver's depth was on full display, with six players scoring in double figures. The Nuggets dominated the second and third quarters, outscoring the Clippers 37–21 and 35–19, respectively, building a lead that proved insurmountable. Russell Westbrook contributed significantly off the bench, adding 5 steals to the team's defensive efforts.

The victory marks Denver's sixth trip to the Western Conference Semifinals in the past seven seasons, underscoring their consistent excellence in the postseason. They now prepare to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in a highly anticipated matchup featuring MVP contenders Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Warriors prevail over Rockets

The Golden State Warriors demonstrated their playoff experience by defeating the Houston Rockets 103–89 in Game 7. Buddy Hield led the scoring with 33 points, shooting an impressive 9-of-11 from three-point range, setting a Game 7 NBA record. Stephen Curry added 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, with 19 of his points coming in the second half.

The Warriors' defense played a crucial role, limiting the Rockets to 40.5% shooting from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. Draymond Green contributed 16 points and two blocks, while Jimmy Butler III added 20 points. Golden State's strategic adjustments, including a disruptive matchup zone defense, effectively stifled Houston’s offense.

This victory marks the Warriors' fifth playoff series win over Houston since 2015 and propels them into a second-round matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The series is notable as it's only the third time in NBA history that a sixth seed faces a seventh seed in the second round, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this year's playoffs.

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As the Western Conference Semifinals approach, both the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors carry momentum from their Game 7 victories. Their upcoming series promises to deliver high-quality basketball, with seasoned veterans and emerging stars vying for a spot in the Conference Finals.