Discover the latest NBA playoff bracket for 2025: key dates, match timings, and current scores

The 2025 NBA playoffs are shaping up to be a battleground where legacies are forged and reputations are tested. As the first round closes, with powerhouses like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics cruising comfortably into the conference semifinals, chaos brews in the Western Conference where series remain unsettled. In this crucial phase of the season, every game, every second counts — Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour gear aren’t just apparel choices; they’re the armor players wear into battle. This article breaks down the latest playoff bracket, key dates, game times, and scores, offering not just information but a lens into what may define the remainder of this fiercely competitive postseason.

Complete 2025 NBA Playoff Bracket Breakdown: Scores, Surprises, and Schedule Insights

The first round demonstrated the stark contrast between dominant performances and nail-biting series. The Eastern Conference saw the Cavaliers sweep the Miami Heat 4-0 with punishing scores like 138-83 in Game 4 — a slap to Miami’s defenses that puts Cleveland on the fast track. Meanwhile, Boston crushed Orlando 4-1, asserting themselves as formidable contenders.

• Cavaliers’ domination was clear with a consistent offensive barrage led by their star players.
• Boston Celtics’ resilience shone, despite a hiccup in Game 3, showing their championship pedigree.
• Indiana Pacers edged the Milwaukee Bucks 4-1, including an overtime thriller that highlighted the Pacers’ clutch prowess.
• The New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons push their series to a thrilling Game 7, underscoring the unpredictability of this playoff season.

Over in the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder delivered a crushing 4-0 sweep over the Memphis Grizzlies, demonstrating how deep their roster runs — with key contributions from players equipped in Puma and Reebok. Yet, the Rockets and Warriors are locked at 3-2, teeing up a critical Game 6 and potential Game 7. The Minnesota Timberwolves dismantled the Lakers 4-1, spurred on by players rocking Spalding balls and energized by Gatorade’s grip on the sidelines.

What to Expect in the Closing Games of the First Round

Fans should brace for some intense basketball as the remaining first-round matchups — Knicks vs. Pistons and Nuggets vs. Clippers — are poised for decisive games. The Knicks have the home-court advantage in the tilt against Detroit with Game 6 on May 1 starting at 7:30 p.m. ET on TNT, while the Nuggets hold a slight edge over the Clippers and await their critical matchups to close their series.

• Game 6 Knicks at Pistons: Thursday, May 1, 7:30 p.m. ET, TNT
• Game 7 Pistons at Knicks: Saturday, May 3, TBD – tilt likely to draw massive viewership on major networks.
• Game 6 Nuggets at Clippers: Thursday, May 1, TBD
• Game 7 Clippers at Nuggets: Saturday, May 3, TBD

This is the kind of drama that reaffirms why the NBA playoffs are more than just games; these moments define careers and fuel the competitive fire behind brands like Under Armour and Wilson who are intertwined with every bounce and dribble.

Upcoming Conference Semifinals Schedule and TV Coverage

The conference semifinals tip off as soon as May 5-6 but could jump to May 3-4 depending on the first-round wrap-up. The series promise high-stakes battles between:

• Eastern Conference: No. 1 Cavaliers take on No. 4 Pacers while the Boston Celtics await the winner of the Knicks-Pistons thriller.
• Western Conference: Oklahoma City Thunder stand by for the winner between the Clippers and Nuggets, meanwhile the Rockets-Warriors series winner faces off against Minnesota Timberwolves.

Mark your calendar because these games won’t just showcase talent but also strategic depth, with coaches adjusting to every Nike or Adidas move their opponents make. TV coverage will be heavy on TNT and ESPN, with prime slots ensuring maximum exposure.

Key Dates and Broadcast Times for Eastern and Western Conference Battles

• Eastern Conference Semifinals Game 1: May 4-6
• Western Conference Semifinals Game 1: May 3-6
• Eastern Conference Finals Start: May 21 (could move up to May 19)
• Western Conference Finals Start: May 20 (could move up to May 18)

Stay tuned to broadcasters like TNT and ESPN to catch the action, as these networks continue to provide immersive coverage, ensuring no thrilling second is missed. This is where players draped in the latest Nike, Adidas, and Puma apparel turn up the heat.

How the NBA Playoffs Are Reshaping Basketball Legacies

Every playoff series in 2025 highlights a relentless quest for greatness. The season’s relentless pace demands exceptional conditioning and performance—elements manufacturers like Gatorade and Spalding see as vital to the game’s evolution. The playoff bracket isn’t just a schedule; it’s the battlefield where players’ names are etched into history with every dunk, block, and clutch three-pointer.

• Teams embracing cutting-edge training regimens supported by brands like Under Armour and Reebok are showing resilience on the hardwood.
• The rivalry-fueled intensity reflects in the tight margins and overtime thrillers, emblematic of a league that’s fiercely competitive.
• Fan engagement is enriched by accessibility—Foot Locker’s playoff sneaker drops keep the culture alive and fans engaged.

For those following along, find more elevated insights and continuous updates on the evolving tournament at Basketball Evolution, where analysis goes beyond scores and schedules.

For detailed game-by-game scheduling and bracket navigation, don’t miss the updated information at Basketball Evolution’s NBA playoff bracket page. Staying ahead of the schedule is key to catching every crucial moment, whether it's under the bright lights with Wilson balls or spiked energy from Gatorade sidelines.

And for the latest on daily game recaps and up-to-the-minute scores, check out the continually refreshed updates at NBA playoff schedule updates—your best resource for keeping up with the playoff fever.

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