The top 10 Greatest Games in NBA History

By Jocelyn Alano December 12, 2023 20:53

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has seen its fair share of memorable and iconic games over the years. From intense rivalries to buzzer-beating shots, these games have not only captivated fans but have also shaped the history of the sport. In this article, we will explore the top 10 greatest games in NBA history, showcasing the incredible talent, skill, and drama that unfolded on the court.

1. Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz

This game will forever be remembered for Michael Jordan's iconic "last shot" with 5.2 seconds remaining on the clock. With the series tied 2-2, the Bulls needed a win to secure their sixth NBA championship. Jordan stole the ball from Karl Malone and hit a game-winning shot to claim the title and solidify his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

2. Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Golden State Warriors

In a historic comeback, the Cavaliers overcame a 3-1 series deficit to win their first NBA championship. This game was a masterpiece from LeBron James, who recorded a triple-double and made a crucial block on Andre Iguodala in the final minutes. The Cavaliers' victory ended a 52-year championship drought for the city of Cleveland.

3. Game 5 of the 1980 NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Philadelphia 76ers

Dubbed the "Magic Johnson Game," this matchup showcased the incredible talent of a rookie Magic Johnson. With Lakers center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar injured, Johnson stepped up and played all five positions, scoring 42 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out seven assists. This performance led the Lakers to victory and secured their first NBA championship since moving to Los Angeles.

4. Game 6 of the 1986 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Houston Rockets

Considered one of the greatest individual performances in NBA history, this game saw Larry Bird deliver a clutch performance. Bird scored 29 of his 32 points in the second half, including 20 points in the fourth quarter, to lead the Celtics to victory and their 16th NBA championship. His heroics solidified his reputation as one of the game's greatest clutch performers.

5. Game 7 of the 1969 NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics

This game marked the end of one of the greatest rivalries in sports history, the Lakers-Celtics rivalry. With the Celtics leading 108-106 in the final seconds, Lakers guard Jerry West hit a 60-foot buzzer-beater to send the game into overtime. Despite West's heroics, the Celtics ultimately prevailed, winning their 11th NBA championship in 13 years.

6. Game 5 of the 1976 NBA Finals: Phoenix Suns vs. Boston Celtics

Known as the "Triple Overtime Game," this matchup showcased two teams battling it out for the championship. The game featured several lead changes and incredible performances from players like Garfield Heard and John Havlicek. After three overtime periods, the Celtics emerged victorious with a 128-126 win, securing their 13th NBA championship.

7. Game 6 of the 2002 Western Conference Finals: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Sacramento Kings

This game is remembered for its controversial officiating and intense rivalry between the Lakers and Kings. With the series tied 2-2, the Kings had a chance to eliminate the defending champions. However, the Lakers overcame a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter and won the game 106-102, eventually going on to win their third consecutive NBA championship.

8. Game 7 of the 2013 NBA Finals: Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs

This game was a classic battle between two powerhouse teams. With seconds remaining in the fourth quarter and the Spurs leading by three, the Heat's Ray Allen hit a clutch three-pointer to send the game into overtime. The Heat ultimately won the game 95-88, securing their second consecutive NBA championship.

9. Game 7 of the 1962 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers

This game showcased the fierce rivalry between the Celtics and Lakers. With the series tied 3-3, the game went into overtime, with the Celtics prevailing 110-107. Celtics center Bill Russell dominated the game with 30 points and 40 rebounds, securing his fifth consecutive NBA championship.

10. Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz

This game is remembered for Michael Jordan's "Flu Game." Despite battling a severe case of the flu, Jordan scored 38 points, including a crucial three-pointer in the final minutes, to lead the Bulls to victory. This win gave the Bulls a 3-2 series lead, and they eventually went on to win their fifth NBA championship.

These games represent some of the most memorable moments in NBA history. From last-second heroics to dominant performances, they have left an indelible mark on the sport and continue to be celebrated by fans around the world. These games are a testament to the skill, passion, and competitiveness that make the NBA one of the greatest sporting leagues in the world.

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