The 2025 NBA Playoffs: What College Students Should Know

Liam Saranich | News Editor

The 2025 NBA Playoffs: What College Students Should Know

The 2025 NBA Playoffs are in full swing, and the excitement is building as teams fight for a shot at the championship. If you are looking to catch up on the action, here is a breakdown of where things stand.

In the Eastern Conference, several teams have already punched their ticket to the next round. The Boston Celtics made a strong showing by defeating the Orlando Magic in five games, closing out the series with an amazing 120–89 win. Star player Jayson Tatum led the charge, helping the Celtics move on to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The Cleveland Cavaliers also advanced, sweeping the Miami Heat in four games. Their consistent performance throughout the series proved that they are a serious contender this postseason. The Indiana Pacers pulled off a surprise win over the Milwaukee Bucks in a close five-game series. The final game went into overtime, with the Pacers edging out the Bucks 119–118 thanks to standout plays by Tyrese Haliburton.

One Eastern Conference matchup is still going on. The New York Knicks and the Detroit Pistons are tied 2–2 in a back-and-forth series. Game 5 is scheduled for May 1. The Knicks are hoping their star point guard, Jalen Brunson, can make a comeback from an ankle injury that has been limiting his time on the court. This series has been one of the most unpredictable so far, and it could go the full seven games.

In the Western Conference, two teams have already advanced. The Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Memphis Grizzlies, showing strong team chemistry. The Minnesota Timberwolves took down the Los Angeles Lakers in five games, with Anthony Edwards proving to be a dominant force. This win is a major moment for the Timberwolves as they continue their playoff push.

Two series in the West are still being decided.  Currently, the Denver Nuggets lead the LA Clippers 3–2, following a 43-point explosion from Jamal Murray in Game 5. With just one more win, the Nuggets could move on. On the other side, the Houston Rockets are ahead 3–2 against the Golden State Warriors. They secured a crucial win in Game 5, 131–116, by making smart lineup decisions and capitalizing on the Warriors’ mistakes.

During the month of May, the schedule is packed. Several big games are happening between May 1 and May 7. These include key matchups that will decide which teams move on to the second round. The semifinals are expected to begin between May 3 and May 6, depending on how the remaining series wrap up.

The NBA Finals are set to begin on June 5, 2025. The road to the championship is still long, but the competition is already intense. For anyone balancing a busy schedule, catching a game or two is a great way to unwind, enjoy some high-stakes basketball, and connect with friends. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a casual viewer, this year’s playoffs are packed with drama, talent, and big moments. Do not miss the chance to see who rises to the top.