The NBA Finals, the highest level of basketball competition, have featured innumerable instances of extraordinary drama and pure genius. In the heat of these high-stakes matches, some shots have become immortalized in basketball history as representations of talent, perseverance, and the capacity to seize the moment. These moments—from Kyrie Irving’s game-winning three-pointer to Michael Jordan’s legendary “Last Shot”—go beyond simple baskets; they are the unforgettable culminations that characterize championship success. Come along with us as we journey through the Top 10 best NBA Finals moments of All Time, reliving the drama and magic that have molded the history of the sport.
Jerry West – 1962 NBA Finals
During the 1962 NBA Finals, the Lakers clashed with the Celtics. In Game 3, with the score tied and time dwindling, the Celtics aimed to run down the clock for a secure victory. Jerry West, renowned for his clutch prowess, made a pivotal play by stealing the ball. He sprinted down the court, delivering a game-winning layup as time expired. Despite losing the series in Game 7, West’s iconic layup endures as one of the most memorable NBA Finals shots.
Vinnie Johnson – 1990 NBA Finals
Vinnie Johnson’s game-winning jumper in Game 5 of the 1990 NBA Finals stands among the best NBA Finals shots. Dubbed “The Microwave” for his clutch ability, Johnson’s shot played a key role in the Detroit Pistons securing back-to-back championships. Notably, Johnson opted to take the shot himself instead of returning the ball to Isiah Thomas, showcasing his confidence and sealing a memorable moment in NBA Finals history.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 1974 NBA Finals
In the 1974 NBA Finals, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar faced the Boston Celtics in a double-overtime battle. With seconds remaining in Game 6, the Celtics led by one point. As the reigning MVP, Abdul-Jabbar showcased his signature skyhook, a 17-foot baseline shot over Celtics center Dave Cowens. Although the Bucks lost the series, Abdul-Jabbar’s game-winning skyhook remains an iconic moment in NBA Finals lore.
Steve Kerr – 1997 NBA Finals
During the 1997 NBA Finals, the Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, faced a tight Game 6 against the Utah Jazz. With the title at stake, Jordan wisely passed the ball to open teammate Steve Kerr instead of forcing a shot. Known for his shooting prowess, Kerr nailed a 15-foot jumper, securing the Bulls’ lead and their second consecutive NBA championship. Kerr’s clutch shot adds to the legacy of best NBA Finals shots.
Robert Horry – 2005 NBA Finals
In Game 5 of the 2005 NBA Finals, Robert Horry, aka “Big Shot Bob,” delivered a game-winning three-pointer for the San Antonio Spurs. With the Spurs trailing by four points and under two minutes left, Horry’s thunderous dunk followed by a cold-blooded three-pointer secured a comeback victory. Playing with an injured shoulder, Horry’s clutch performance stands as one of the best NBA Finals shots.
John Paxson – 1993 NBA Finals
The 1993 NBA Finals featured a dramatic Game 6 between the Chicago Bulls and the Phoenix Suns. In a crucial moment, Michael Jordan passed to Horace Grant, who found John Paxson behind the arc. Paxson buried the three-pointer, giving the Bulls the lead and securing their first championship three-peat. Paxson’s clutch play solidified the Bulls’ dominance and remains one of the best NBA Finals shots.
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Magic Johnson – 1987 NBA Finals
In Game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals, Magic Johnson faced a pivotal moment against the Celtics. With seven seconds left, Johnson, surrounded by the Celtics’ Big Three, executed a perfect baby skyhook shot, securing the Lakers’ victory. This move propelled the Lakers to a 3-1 series lead and eventual championship glory, marking one of the best NBA Finals shots.
Kyrie Irving – 2016 NBA Finals
In the closing minutes of Game 7 in the 2016 NBA Finals, Kyrie Irving showcased his clutch abilities with a game-winning 3-pointer against Stephen Curry. Irving’s shot secured Cleveland’s first championship in 52 years and completed a historic comeback from a 3-1 deficit. Paired with LeBron James’ iconic block, Irving’s shot against an elite shooter like Curry stands among the best NBA Finals shots.
Ray Allen – 2013 NBA Finals
Ray Allen’s three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals ranks among the best NBA Finals shots. With the Miami Heat trailing and 15 seconds left, Allen’s shot tied the game, leading to an overtime win and eventual championship victory. Allen’s clutch 3-pointer altered the course of the series, solidifying its place in NBA Finals history.
Michael Jordan – 1998 NBA Finals
In the critical moments of Game 6 in the 1998 NBA Final, Michael Jordan showcased his greatness. Trailing by one point, Jordan stripped the ball from Karl Malone, raced up the court, and hit a jump shot over Bryon Russell. Known as “The Last Shot” this iconic moment secured the Bulls’ victory, Jordan’s sixth championship, and remains the best NBA Finals shot of all time, denying Malone an NBA title.
The Bottom Line!
These 10 greatest NBA Finals shots serve as immortal testaments to talent, bravery, and the unwavering spirit of competition in the grand arena of the NBA Finals, where champions are crowned and legacies are established. Every memorable basketball moment, from Michael Jordan’s renowned “Last Shot” to Jerry West’s iconic steal and layup, captures the essence of basketball greatness. We honor the creativity, tenacity, and sheer genius that have made a lasting impression on the NBA Finals’ storied past as we relive these iconic plays.
