The NBA Finals, the grand culmination of the basketball season, has witnessed unparalleled moments of brilliance and heart-stopping drama. In the quest for championship glory, players have etched their names in history with clutch shots that resonate through time. Here, we revisit and celebrate the top 10 Best NBA Finals Shots that have left an indelible mark on the sport.
10. Jerry West – 1962 NBA Finals
In a classic showdown between the Lakers and the Celtics, Jerry West’s heroics in Game 3 of the 1962 NBA Finals stand out. With the game tied, West’s steal and subsequent game-winning layup showcased his clutch prowess, although the Lakers eventually fell short in the series.
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9. Vinnie Johnson – 1990 NBA Finals
Nicknamed “The Microwave” for his ability to heat up quickly, Vinnie Johnson’s game-winning jumper in Game 5 of the 1990 NBA Finals secured back-to-back championships for the Detroit Pistons. Johnson’s decision to take the shot himself, instead of passing to Isiah Thomas, adds to the shot’s allure.
8. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 1974 NBA Finals
In a double-overtime thriller against the Celtics, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s skyhook in Game 6 of the 1974 NBA Finals showcased his finesse. Despite the Bucks eventually losing the series, Abdul-Jabbar’s iconic shot remains etched in Finals history.
7. Steve Kerr – 1997 NBA Finals
Amidst the intense battle between the Bulls and the Jazz in Game 6 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Steve Kerr’s game-winning jumper, courtesy of Michael Jordan’s unselfish play, secured Chicago’s second consecutive championship. Kerr’s clutch shot highlights teamwork and smart decision-making under pressure.
6. Robert Horry – 2005 NBA Finals
Known as “Big Shot Bob,” Robert Horry’s memorable performance in Game 5 of the 2005 NBA Finals added another chapter to his clutch legacy. A thunderous dunk followed by a cold-blooded three-pointer, while playing with an injured shoulder, showcased Horry’s resilience and ability to shine in critical moments.
5. John Paxson – 1993 NBA Finals
During the 1993 NBA Finals, John Paxson’s crucial three-pointer in Game 6, orchestrated by Michael Jordan’s drive and assist, clinched the Bulls’ first championship three-peat. This iconic shot dashed Charles Barkley’s aspirations of overcoming Jordan, affirming Chicago’s supremacy in the basketball world.
4. Magic Johnson – 1987 NBA Finals
In a critical moment during Game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals, Magic Johnson’s baby skyhook against the Celtics’ formidable defense showcased his brilliance. The Lakers’ victory in this iconic matchup set the stage for their championship triumph.
3. Kyrie Irving – 2016 NBA Finals
Kyrie Irving’s game-winning 3-pointer in the final minutes of Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, against the formidable Warriors, secured Cleveland’s first championship in 52 years. Irving’s shot, coupled with LeBron James’ historic block, marked a comeback for the ages. Kyrie Irving, 2016 NBA Finals shot should be ranked in the list of 10 Best NBA Finals Shots.
2. Ray Allen – 2013 NBA Finals
Ray Allen’s unforgettable three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, with the Heat trailing and just 15 seconds left, altered the course of the series. The shot forced overtime, eventually leading to the Heat’s victory and cementing Allen’s place in Finals history. This shot should be ranked in the list of 10 Best NBA Finals Shots.
1. Michael Jordan – 1998 NBA Finals
In the closing moments of Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan’s “Last Shot” secured the Bulls’ sixth championship. Stripping the ball from Karl Malone, Jordan’s iconic jump shot over Bryon Russell defined clutch play and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest in NBA history.
His 1998 NBA Finals shot is no doubt ranked 1st in the list of 10 Best NBA Finals Shots.
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FAQs
There’s no single answer. Factors might include:
Impact on the game: Did the shot win the game, tie the score, or create a significant momentum shift in the Finals series?
Degree of difficulty: Was it a contested shot, a buzzer-beater, or a remarkable display of skill under pressure?
Historical significance: Did the shot win a championship, end a long drought, or solidify a player’s legacy?
The pressure is immense. These shots can define a player’s legacy, impact their team’s championship aspirations, and unfold under the intense scrutiny of millions of fans.
Many players visualize these scenarios in practice, work on clutch shooting drills, and develop mental strategies to stay focused under pressure.
NBA website: The NBA website provides extensive information of all players, including historical leaders (https://www.nba.com/)
Summing it Up
The NBA Finals have witnessed unparalleled moments of greatness, 10 Best NBA Finals Shots, where players transcended pressure to deliver game-defining shots. From Jerry West’s pivotal steal to Michael Jordan’s legendary “Last Shot,” each instance epitomizes the essence of clutch performance in basketball lore. These are the moments cherished by fans, elevating the NBA Finals to the pantheon of sporting greatness.
Umer Hussain, a seasoned sports journalist with a decade of experience, is renowned for his in-depth coverage and analytical prowess in football, cricket, NBA, and NFL. His ability to unravel complex strategies and craft engaging narratives sets him apart, offering a unique perspective that enriches the sports journalism landscape.
