In a thrilling Game 1 that had all the drama of a classic postseason opener, the Denver Nuggets pulled off a stunning win thanks to an unexpected hero and a rejuvenated veteran. Christian Braun, the second-year guard often overshadowed by Denver’s big names, knocked down a clutch corner three with under a minute to play, shifting the momentum permanently. And it was none other than Russell Westbrook — yes, Russ — who delivered the game-sealing stop on the final possession, proving he still has gas left in the tank when it matters most.
The game was tightly contested from the start. The opposing team came in prepared, matching Denver’s intensity and executing their game plan to near perfection. Nikola Jokić had a relatively quiet night by his MVP standards — 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists — as the defense focused heavily on containing him. Jamal Murray was electric early but struggled to find rhythm late, leaving the door open for someone else to step up.
That someone turned out to be Christian Braun.
With the Nuggets down two and just over a minute remaining, Braun found himself wide open in the corner after a scramble play. Jokić, drawing a double team in the post, kicked the ball out to Michael Porter Jr., who quickly swung it to Braun. Without hesitation, Braun launched the shot — nothing but net. Ball Arena erupted. That three gave Denver a one-point lead and turned the tide with just 47 seconds to go.
Braun, a 2022 NCAA Champion and now an NBA role player with championship experience, showed the poise of a seasoned vet. He finished with 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting, but it was that one shot that will be replayed for days — maybe longer.
Still, Denver had to get one more stop.
With the crowd on its feet and the tension palpable, the opposing team isolated their star guard at the top of the key, looking to exploit a mismatch. But standing across from him was Russell Westbrook, inserted for defense despite his up-and-down offensive night. At 36, Russ has taken a new role in Denver — a veteran presence off the bench, leader in the locker room, and defensive sparkplug.
And spark he did.
The offensive player drove hard to the right, trying to shake Westbrook with a quick crossover. But Russ anticipated it perfectly. He slid with him, absorbed the contact, and got his hand on the ball as the shooter went up. The shot was short, the rebound fell to Aaron Gordon, and the Nuggets secured the win.
Westbrook let out a primal yell, flexing as teammates mobbed him. It wasn’t the kind of stat-line night we’re used to from his OKC or L.A. days — 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists — but that one defensive play reminded everyone that he’s still a difference-maker.
Head coach Michael Malone praised both Braun and Westbrook postgame.
“Christian has no fear. That shot? That’s what winners do,” Malone said. “And Russ? He’s bought into our system, he’s here to win. That stop — that’s what champions are made of.”
With Game 1 now in the books, Denver takes an early 1–0 lead in the series, but more importantly, they’ve shown their depth. When Jokić and Murray don’t dominate, the Nuggets still find a way. Braun’s confidence is growing, and Westbrook’s leadership could be the x-factor in a long playoff run.
Game 2 looms, but tonight, it’s all about the clutch shot, the defensive stand, and a reminder that championship DNA runs deep in Denver.
In a wild finish to Game 1, the Denver Nuggets showed why they’re still a serious threat to repeat as champions — but this time, it wasn’t Jokić or Murray playing hero. It was Christian Braun with the clutch shot, and Russell Westbrook with the game-sealing stop, lifting Denver to a nail-biting win.
With just under a minute left and Denver trailing by two, Nikola Jokić drew a double-team in the post and swung the ball around the perimeter. It ended up in the hands of Christian Braun, who calmly drilled a corner three to give the Nuggets a one-point lead with 47 seconds left. The crowd exploded. Braun, usually known for his defense and hustle, delivered one of the biggest shots of his young career.
But the game wasn’t over.
On the final possession, the opposing team’s star tried to take matters into his own hands, isolating up top. That’s when Russell Westbrook stepped up. Brought in late for defense, the veteran stayed with his man, anticipated the drive, and contested the shot perfectly — forcing a miss that sealed the win for Denver. It was a gritty, emotional moment for Westbrook, whose role has evolved, but whose impact is still massive.
“Christian’s fearless. Russ is a warrior. That’s what tonight was about,” said coach Michael Malone.
Denver takes a 1–0 series lead, but perhaps more importantly, sends a message: this team isn’t just about their stars. They’ve got depth, experience, and clutch DNA throughout the roster.
Game 2 is coming fast, but for now — the night belongs to Christian Braun and Russell Westbrook.
