Editor’s Note: This article was written on May 5, 2025. As of May 29, 2025, the New York Knicks host the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden, with the Pacers holding a 3-1 lead over the Knicks and aiming to secure their first NBA finals appearance since 2000. Meanwhile, in the West, the Oklahoma City Thunder have secured their spot in the NBA finals after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 124-94 in Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals.

The first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs has finally concluded, and it was anything but short on drama. From dominating title contender showings to upsets by seeds below, Round One set the stage for what could be one of the most competitive playoffs in recent history. 

In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics lost no time reminding the fans why they came in as the East’s top seed. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown dominated every game with calmness and muscle, beating out the Orlando Magic four to one. While the Orlando Magic have a tough reputation, known for their physical play and aggressive offense, they couldn’t keep up with Boston’s firepower, especially with star forward Paolo Banchero hampered by injury. 

“The Celtics look serious this year,” said Aidan Richards ‘26. “I don’t think there’s a team in the East that can match up with them if they stay healthy.”

Over in the west, the Denver Nuggets picked up where they left off in the spring, blowing away the Los Angeles Clippers in seven games. Nikola Jokić once more demonstrated why he’s considered one of the league’s best, averaging a near triple-double over the series. The defending champions look sharp and ravenous to do it again. 

But the Playoffs were not without surprises. The Minnesota Timberwolves, a sixth seed many had counted out, orchestrated an unexpected upset in their game against the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron James and Luka Doncic, members of the Lakers, struggled at critical times, proving that the next generation may be starting to overpower playoff experience. 

Meanwhile, one of the most entertaining series of Round One was the New York Knicks’ series against the Detroit Pistons. In a six-game rollercoaster, the Knicks barely prevailed, surviving on the strength of a 40-point explosion by Jalen Brunson in the decisive game that fell in favor of the Knicks. “My favorite moment had to be Brunson going off in Game 6,” said Rohan Zumbo ’26. “When it mattered most, he just put the team on his back. That’s what great players do.”

The Golden State Warriors also advanced after a grueling seven-game series against the Houston Rockets. Steph Curry was impressive again, scoring over 22 points per game and making crucial plays down the stretch. Despite the efforts of the young Rockets team, their lack of playoff experience was not enough to get the Rockets past a deep and determined Warriors team. 

As Round Two gets going, everyone’s wondering who will go the distance?

Though Boston and Denver seem like the early favorites to make it to the Finals, some students are looking toward dark horse contenders. 

“The Oklahoma City Thunder are my sleeper team,” said Richards. “Shai [Gilgeous-Alexander] has been quietly amazing all season, and now people are finally starting to see how dangerous they are. I wouldn’t be surprised if they make the Conference Finals.” 

As teams head into the second round, the pressure rises and the stakes increase. Veterans are battling to cement their legacies, young stars are seizing the spotlight, and every possession feels like it could shift the course of the series. For NBA fans at our school and across the country: buckle up. 

“I just want close games and big moments,” said Ryan Speaker ’27. “This is the best time of the year for basketball.” 

With Round Two coming to a close, the stage is now set for the conference finals, where the Knicks will face the resilient Pacers in the East, and the Thunder will clash with the Timberwolves. With Stars like Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander all vying for a shot at the title, fans are in for a pair of showdowns that promise integrity, grit, and unforgettable moments.