When it comes to the NBA playoffs, certain runs stand out in the history of the league. These legendary moments have cemented players and teams into the annals of NBA lore. Let me take you through some of the most unforgettable ones.
Back in 1993, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls were on an incredible journey to their third consecutive NBA Championship. Jordan’s performance during that playoff run was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 35.1 points per game in the Finals against the Phoenix Suns. That series saw Jordan drop 55 points in Game 4, showcasing his unmatched scoring ability. The Bulls clinched the championship in six games, and Jordan's legacy as the greatest became even more concrete.
Moving forward to the 2000-2001 season, Allen Iverson had one of the most memorable playoff runs despite not winning the championship. Iverson led the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals while averaging a staggering 32.9 points per game throughout the playoffs. His iconic 48-point performance in Game 1 of the Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he stepped over Tyronn Lue, is seared into the memory of NBA fans. Iverson carried his team to that stage with pure determination and skill.
In 2008, the Boston Celtics, led by their newly-formed Big Three of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen, had a playoff run that rejuvenated the storied franchise. The Celtics had a 66-16 regular season record, the best in the league and their best since the 1985-1986 season. They faced tough competition in the playoffs but managed to defeat the Lakers in six games in the Finals. Paul Pierce earned the Finals MVP title by averaging 21.8 points per game. This run marked the Celtics’ 17th NBA Championship, the most in NBA history at that time.
Now, who can forget Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks' 2011 playoff run? Many didn’t believe the Mavericks could compete with the likes of Kobe Bryant’s Lakers, Kevin Durant’s Thunder, or LeBron James' Miami Heat. Dirk, however, led his team with performances that will be remembered for decades. He averaged 27.7 points per game during the playoffs and had multiple 40-plus point games. The Mavericks beat the Heat in six games, with Nowitzki earning the Finals MVP and silencing critics who doubted he could win a title.
Another iconic run came from LeBron James in 2016 with the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron delivered on his promise to bring a championship to Cleveland. The Cavaliers became the first team in NBA history to come back from a 3-1 deficit in the NBA Finals to win the championship. LeBron’s overall performance, which included averaging 29.7 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game, earned him the Finals MVP. His Game 7 block on Andre Iguodala is one of the most iconic moments in sports history.
Outside of the players, certain teams’ efforts are noteworthy. The 1999 San Antonio Spurs, for instance, capitalized on the shortened 50-game regular season caused by a lockout. Led by Tim Duncan and David Robinson, the Spurs had a playoff record of 15-2. They dominated the New York Knicks in the Finals, securing their first NBA Championship and setting the foundation for a future dynasty. Duncan, then only 23 years old, claimed his first Finals MVP with an average of 27.4 points and 14 rebounds per game.
Fast forward to 2020, the Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, navigated a unique and challenging playoff run in the Orlando bubble due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite no home-court advantage and unprecedented circumstances, the Lakers clinched their 17th title. LeBron completed his remarkable journey with his fourth Finals MVP, averaging 29.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. The Lakers' success in these extraordinary conditions showcased their adaptability and determination.
Looking at the details, Kawhi Leonard’s performance with the Toronto Raptors in 2019 stands out uniquely. Kawhi averaged 30.5 points and 9.1 rebounds per game during the playoffs, playing through injury for much of the run. The Raptors' journey to their first-ever NBA Championship not only brought immense pride to Canada but also reshaped the balance of power in the NBA. Leonard's famous buzzer-beater against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals remains a highlight reel favorite.
Lastly, the Golden State Warriors’ dominance from 2015 to 2019 remains one of the most impressive in NBA history. Led by Steph Curry, who redefined the game with his three-point shooting, the Warriors won three championships in that span. Their 2016-2017 season, in particular, was mind-blowing. They set a postseason record of 16-1, the best in NBA history. Kevin Durant’s addition to the team only made them more formidable, and he earned Finals MVP in 2017 and 2018.
These unforgettable playoff runs have not only captivated fans but have also elevated the status of the NBA as a global phenomenon. For more such thrilling sports narratives, visit arena plus and stay updated.