Obi Toppin Misses Dunk; Towns Scores 3-pointer in Eastern Conference Finals

NEW YORK, NY—Obi Toppin missed a crucial dunk during the second quarter of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on May 21, 2025. In a fast-paced transition play, Toppin raced through the lane, leaping high for what many expected to be an impressive slam dunk.

However, the ball hit the back of the rim and ricocheted towards the top of the key, where Josh Hart seized the opportunity. The play turned disastrous for Toppin as it set up Karl-Anthony Towns to score a three-pointer on the other end, swinging momentum in favor of the opposing team.

Replays of the missed dunk revealed Toppin’s visibly pained expression as he remained in mid-air, helplessly watching the ball bounce away. Fans on social media quickly reacted to the moment, with one user commenting, “Obi Toppin misses the wide-open dunk, and Karl-Anthony Towns punishes with a 3-pointer.”

This incident highlights a unique challenge for powerful dunkers like Toppin. While they often deliver spectacular plays, missed dunks can quickly lead to fast breaks for the opponent. Toppin’s miss serves as a reminder of the fine line athletes walk between showcasing their skills and facing the consequences of their mistakes in high-stakes moments.

The Eastern Conference Finals continue as teams battle for a shot at the championship.