The past decade has been an incredible era for the NBA, with some of the most talented players and teams in league history. The NBA Finals, the culmination of the playoffs, has consistently delivered thrilling moments that will be etched in the memories of basketball fans forever. Here’s a look at some of the top NBA Finals highlights from the past decade:
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Kawhi Leonard’s Game 7 Buzzer-Beater (2019): In a thrilling conclusion to the NBA Finals, Kawhi Leonard sank a buzzer-beating jump shot in Game 7 to give the Toronto Raptors their first championship in franchise history. The shot, which bounced off the rim four times before going in, will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in NBA history.
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LeBron James’ 2016 NBA Finals Comeback: Down 3-1 in the series, LeBron James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to an incredible comeback, winning the final three games to capture the championship. James’ dominant performance, which included a 41-point, 16-rebound, 7-assist outing in Game 5, cemented his status as one of the all-time greats.
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Kevin Durant’s 2017 NBA Finals MVP: In his first season with the Golden State Warriors, Kevin Durant dominated the NBA Finals, earning MVP honors after averaging 35.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. His incredible performance helped the Warriors win their second championship in three years.
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Stephen Curry’s 2015 NBA Finals Three-Point Barrage: In Game 5 of the 2015 NBA Finals, Stephen Curry caught fire, hitting 7 three-pointers and scoring 37 points to help the Warriors take a 3-2 series lead. The Warriors would go on to win the championship in six games, with Curry earning NBA Finals MVP honors.
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Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 2021 NBA Finals Dominance: In his first NBA Finals appearance, Giannis Antetokounmpo put on a show, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to their first championship in 50 years. Antetokounmpo’s impressive performance, which included a 50-point, 14-rebound outing in Game 6, earned him NBA Finals MVP honors.
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Ray Allen’s 2013 NBA Finals Game 6: In a thrilling Game 6, Ray Allen hit a clutch three-pointer with 5.2 seconds remaining to tie the game and force overtime. Although the Miami Heat ultimately lost the game, Allen’s shot will be remembered as one of the greatest in NBA history.
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Draymond Green’s 2015 NBA Finals Triple-Double: In Game 6 of the 2015 NBA Finals, Draymond Green recorded a triple-double, with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, to help the Warriors win their first championship in 40 years.
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Klay Thompson’s 2016 NBA Finals Game 6: In a must-win Game 6, Klay Thompson scored 41 points, including 11 three-pointers, to help the Warriors force a deciding Game 7.
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Russell Westbrook’s 2012 NBA Finals: Although the Oklahoma City Thunder ultimately lost the series, Russell Westbrook’s impressive performance, which included a 43-point outing in Game 4, showcased his incredible talent and set the stage for his future success.
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Anthony Davis’ 2020 NBA Finals: In his first NBA Finals appearance, Anthony Davis dominated the series, averaging 25.7 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game to help the Los Angeles Lakers win their 17th championship.
These highlights represent just a few of the many incredible moments from the past decade of NBA Finals. As the league continues to evolve and new stars emerge, fans can expect many more thrilling moments in the years to come.