The final day of the NBA season is always a spectacle of unpredictability. As teams that have already secured their playoff spots look ahead to potential first-round matchups, those vying for lottery positions are fully committed to their tanking strategies. Meanwhile, other teams compete with a sense of desperate urgency. On this day, it’s common to witness players, often unfamiliar, achieving triple-doubles, scoring 30 points, or taking more shots than they have all season. This year's finale in 2025 was no different, delivering a mix of competition, absurdity, and sheer entertainment.
While the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference was mostly settled, the Western Conference was rife with drama. With playoff seeding hanging in the balance, teams from seeds 4 to 10 were battling fiercely, and the stakes were high. The atmosphere was charged, as teams aimed to avoid the dreaded play-in tournament, which presents its own set of challenges. Here’s a rundown of the most significant takeaways from a thrilling Sunday of NBA action.
Among the many games played, the matchup between the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers was the most consequential. A missed jumper from Kawhi Leonard sent the game into overtime, with the implications clear: win and secure a playoff spot, lose and risk entering the play-in tournament. The play-in is not an ideal situation, as it can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
This game showcased high-level basketball, with both teams delivering significant performances. For the Warriors, a thumb-wrapped Steph Curry exploded in the fourth quarter and overtime, while James Harden of the Clippers contributed an impressive 39 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds.
The standout performer, however, was Kawhi Leonard, who finished with 33 points on 13-of-20 shooting and added 7 assists, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals in 47 minutes of play. His performance signals that he is back in his prime, showcasing the agility and skill that once made him one of the league’s most formidable players. Commentator Bob Myers praised Leonard's movement, noting, "This is the best I’ve seen him look in a long time." If Kawhi can maintain his health, the Clippers could prove to be a formidable opponent for the Nuggets in the first round.
At 39 years old, Chris Paul demonstrated his commitment to the game by playing all 82 games this season for the San Antonio Spurs, a historic accomplishment for any player in their 20th season or later. His performance is particularly impressive given his stature at 6 feet and 175 pounds, making him one of the smallest players on the court most nights.
Paul’s dedication was highlighted by teammate Jeremy Sochan, who remarked on Paul's unusual commitment to the sport, saying, "He could be in flipping, I don’t know, Hawaii, doing nothing. And he’s here in San Antonio, Texas, busting his ass 82 games." This level of dedication is rare and showcases Paul's love for basketball.
In another unexpected twist, the Washington Wizards faced off against the Miami Heat, where Washington was actively tanking to maintain the worst record in the league and secure better lottery odds. Despite their efforts, the Wizards put up a fight, with notable performances from Tristan Vukcevic and Justin Champagnie.
In a thrilling finish, Bub Carrington hit a game-winning shot as time expired, sending the Wizards into a celebration. This moment was a testament to the spirit of competition, even amidst a tanking strategy, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the NBA.
In a departure from typical end-of-season behavior, the Houston Rockets opted to play their starters against the Nuggets, despite already being set in the playoff hierarchy. This decision underscored their commitment to establishing a tough identity as they enter the playoffs. Although they faced a significant loss, the Rockets' approach is indicative of their mindset heading into the postseason.
Finally, in the game between the Milwaukee Bucks and Detroit Pistons, Kyle Kuzma had a standout performance, scoring 22 points in just the first quarter. His remarkable efficiency was a highlight of the day, demonstrating how players often shine in the final games of the season. Kuzma’s quick exit from the game after declaring he would only play one quarter added a layer of humor to an already entertaining day.
The final day of the NBA season always delivers unexpected twists and memorable moments, setting the stage for an exciting playoff season ahead. As teams prepare for the challenges that lie ahead, fans can look forward to the drama and excitement that the playoffs promise to bring.
