The Denver Nuggets delivered one of the most dramatic moments in recent NBA Playoff history in Game 4 against the LA Clippers. Aaron Gordon’s buzzer-beating dunk not only sealed a 101-99 victory but also tied the best-of-seven series at 2-2. For Nuggets fans and basketball enthusiasts everywhere, it was a magical moment that will live long in postseason lore.

Gordon’s Buzzer-Beater Lifts Nuggets

With only seconds remaining, it looked as if the game was destined for overtime after Nikola Jokic's off-balance shot missed everything. However, Aaron Gordon leaped into action, grabbing the ball and slamming it home, just beating the final buzzer. The Nuggets bench erupted as officials reviewed the play.

Referees confirmed that Gordon’s dunk left his fingertips a fraction of a second before time expired, making it the first buzzer-beating, game-winning dunk in NBA playoff history. For a detailed breakdown of the play and postgame reactions, read ESPN's full recap of Gordon’s heroics.

The Anatomy of a Playoff Classic

The Nuggets appeared to be cruising, building a lead as large as 22 points early in the fourth quarter. Jokic was at his dominant best, finishing with 36 points, 21 rebounds, and 8 assists. Yet, the Clippers fought back, orchestrating a furious 32-9 run to snatch a late lead.

A tense sequence saw Jokic tie the game at the line, followed by a Zubac tip-in to knot it again at 99-99 with eight seconds to play. With the clock dwindling, Jokic lofted up a desperate three. Gordon, acting on instinct and timing, soared for the rebound and delivered his iconic dunk as time expired.

For more on the emotionally charged atmosphere and playoff drama, visit the Los Angeles Times Game 4 review.

Stat Sheet and Milestones

This game marked only the second time in the play-by-play era (since 1997-98) that a playoff game ended with a game-winning dunk. The Nuggets’ win was also notable for the blown 22-point lead that nearly cost them the game. Yet, the mental toughness from Jokic, Gordon, and the team shone through when it mattered most.

Nikola Jokic’s stat line placed him alongside legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, and Elgin Baylor as one of just four players to record at least 35 points, 20 rebounds, and 8 assists in a playoff game.

Get more insights into the series and playoff context from the NBA.com Starting 5 recap, which covers what this latest Nuggets win means for the broader playoff picture.

What’s Next for the Nuggets?

The win sends the series back to Denver for a pivotal Game 5. The Nuggets have now reclaimed home-court advantage and momentum. With three of the first four games being decided by three points or less, this series delivers excitement at every turn. Gordon’s resilience—especially while playing through a calf injury—has become an inspiring story within the locker room.

Beyond the highlight itself, this finish adds a new chapter to Nuggets playoff history. It sets up an epic continuation as Denver looks to push ahead in their quest for another deep postseason run.

Conclusion

Aaron Gordon’s last-second heroics elevated the Nuggets and provided fans with an unforgettable NBA Playoff moment. If Game 4 is any indication, basketball lovers can expect more fireworks as this exciting series unfolds. Stay tuned for the next battle as the Nuggets continue their pursuit of playoff glory.