With the Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominant Game 7 victory over the Denver Nuggets, the Conference Semifinals officially came to a close. Meanwhile, it set the stage for an unpredictable and historic NBA conclusion. For the first time in years, the league is guaranteed a new champion.
The final four teams that advance to the conference finals are the Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves, Indiana Pacers, and New York Knicks. Only the Knicks have tasted championship glory, and that was in 1973. The Thunder, Timberwolves, and Pacers are still seeking their first-ever title.
The last four teams in the playoffs:
— Joel Moran (@joelvmoran) May 18, 2025
OKC – 0 championships
MIN – 0 championships
IND – 0 championships
NYK – 2 championships (last in 1973)
We’re going to witness a team winning a championship for the first time or for the first time in 52 years pic.twitter.com/njKsoOFgAa
As the Celtics and Nuggets join the long list of eliminated contenders, the NBA is now on track to crown a different champion for the seventh consecutive year. Since 2019, the title has rotated among the Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics.
Traditionally, a small group of franchises has ruled the league. The Celtics, Lakers, Warriors, Chicago Bulls, and San Antonio Spurs have accounted for nearly 68 percent of all titles ever awarded in the NBA.
This season, however, signals a new chapter. A title win by any of the remaining teams would represent either a first or a long-awaited triumph that could change the scenario of modern NBA history.
Fans Celebrate the End Of Dynasties In The NBA
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The internet is buzzing with excitement as fans react to the upcoming championship race. For many, the shift away from traditional powerhouses is a breath of fresh air.
“Great for the league idgaf what anyone says,” one fan declared.
great for the league idgaf what anyone says
— csb (@itsCSB__) May 18, 2025
“Even as a butthurt Celtics fan, I’m going to admit this is good for the league,” another admitted.
Even as a butthurt Celtics fan, I’m going to admit this is good for the league
— 𝒊𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒂𝒉 (@isaiiahx) May 18, 2025
“Great for basketball ngl,” a comment read.
great for basketball ngl
— OKC WHARK (@WHARKNUT) May 18, 2025
“As a basketball fan you love to see this stuff,” another user added.
As a basketball fan you love to see this stuff
— Joseph (@JHeat2119) May 19, 2025
“The New Era officially have took over the league,” one fan commented.
The New Era officially have took over the league
— Jay (@JayTheGreat305) May 18, 2025
The Western Conference Finals between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder is set to begin Tuesday night. The Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks will follow on Wednesday night.
