The Greatest NBA Finals Moments: Reliving The Most Iconic Plays

2 Jun 2023

Relive the greatest NBA Finals moments in history! We’re diving deep into the annals of basketball greatness to showcase the absolute best of the best.

The NBA Finals, the pinnacle of basketball competition, have produced some of the most unforgettable and awe-inspiring moments. These iconic plays have etched themselves into the collective memory of basketball fans. From game-winning shots to legendary performances, the NBA Finals have been the stage for some truly remarkable displays of skill, resilience, and greatness. In this article, we will delve into the annals of basketball history to relive the greatest NBA Finals moments of all time.

Magic Johnson’s Game 6 Performance in 1980 Finals

The 1980 NBA Finals marked a turning point in basketball history. At the center of it, was the enigmatic Magic Johnson. In Game 6, facing off against the Philadelphia 76ers, the LA Lakers suffered an unwelcome setback. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was out with an ankle injury. The situation forced a drastic change of plan, with Johnson moving from a point guard to a starting center in LA’s biggest game of the year.

Undeterred by the pressure, Magic delivered a performance for the ages. He dominated the court, tallying a triple-double of 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists. His astonishing display of versatility led the Lakers to a 123-107 victory, clinching them the NBA Championship in Philadelphia.

Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game” in 1997 Finals

Michael Jordan’s unparalleled greatness reached new heights during the 1997 Finals. Game 5 of the series between the Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz witnessed a legendary display of determination and resilience. To this day, it is known as the “Flu Game.”

Despite battling a severe illness, Jordan summoned an extraordinary performance. His weakened and dehydrated body left him staggered and exhausted on the floor. Yet, he poured in 38 points, including a crucial three-pointer in the final half-minute. The guard’s exploits led Chicago to a pivotal 90-88 victory in Utah. This iconic moment exemplified MJ’s unrivaled competitiveness and indomitable spirit, cementing his status as a basketball legend and etching the “Flu Game” in NBA lore as one of the most extraordinary individual efforts in Finals history.

Ray Allen’s Game 6 Clutch Three-Pointer in 2013 Finals

The 2013 NBA Finals between the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs was unforgettable. Game 6, in particular, left an indelible mark on the series. Even to his day, Ray Allen’s clutch three-pointer remains one of the most dramatic and game-altering moments in the league’s history.

The Miami Heat, trailing by three points and time running out, needed a miracle, and they had one. After LeBron James missed a potential game-tying three-pointer, Chris Bosh secured the offensive rebound. The center passed the ball out to Allen. In a split second, the guard elevated and launched a picture-perfect three-pointer from the corner, burying it with remarkable precision. The shot sent the game into overtime and shifted the momentum in the Heat’s favor. Miami would go on to win Game 6 by 103-100 and ultimately claim the championship in a decisive Game 7.

“The Block” by LeBron James in 2016 Finals

In the high-stakes Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors, LeBron James delivered a play that transcended the boundaries of athleticism and defined the meaning of resilience.

With just under two minutes remaining and the score tied, the Warriors were on the verge of taking the lead. Andre Iguodala sprinted down the court for what seemed like an uncontested layup. However, in a moment of sheer determination, LeBron seemingly defied the laws of physics. He chased down Iguodala from behind and executed a gravity-defying block, swatting the ball away with incredible force. The Block, as it would come to be known, not only preserved the tie but also ignited a surge of energy and belief within the Cavaliers. They went on to win Game 7 by 93-89, ending Cleveland’s 52-year wait for another championship.

“The Shot” by Michael Jordan in 1998 Finals

When it comes to clutch moments in NBA Finals history, one play reigns supreme: “The Shot” by Michael Jordan in the 1998 Finals.

In Game 6 against the Utah Jazz, with the series on the line and just seconds remaining, Jordan received the ball at the top of the key. With unmatched grace and determination, the shooting guard executed a mesmerizing dribble move. He roamed across Bryon Russell, and with the clock winding down, elevated and unleashed a picture-perfect jumper. The ball sailed through the air and swished through the net, defying all odds. The United Center erupted in a frenzy of celebration.

“The Shot” not only secured the Bulls’ sixth championship but also solidified MJ’s legacy as one of the greatest clutch performers. The image of him soaring through the air, frozen in time, remains an enduring symbol of excellence and will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of basketball fans worldwide.