Top 5 Most Unforgettable NBA Finals Moments: The Clutch Edition

Countless moments in the NBA Finals are too memorable for the viewers to hold. They defined the games but marked the sport in ways impossible to erase.

Let's revisit some of the most iconic highlights in NBA Finals history featuring the "Clutch Edition."

Corner Three by Ray Allen: 2013 Finals, Game 6

Top 5 Most Unforgettable NBA Finals Moments: The Clutch Edition

Series Situation: Spurs lead Heat 3-2.

In the waning moments of Game 6, Miami's hopes hung by a thread. Down by three, LeBron James missed a game-tying three-pointer, but Chris Bosh's clutch offensive rebound set the stage. Finding Ray Allen backpedaling into the corner, Bosh delivered the ball, and Allen drained a game-tying three with 5.2 seconds left.

Significance:

This moment shifted the championship's trajectory, saving Miami's season and securing their eventual Game 7 victory. The Spurs, moments away from the celebration, were thrown off course.

Questions lingered about Coach Gregg Popovich's decision to bench Tim Duncan during this crucial play. The Heat's triumph here sparked debates on decision-making and resilience under pressure.

The Flu Game: How Jordan Saved the Bulls, 1997 Finals, Game 5

Series Situation: Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz tied at 2-all

Michael Jordan was the star of the team, but even the strongest players can be slowed down by a sickness. In his case, he had flu-like symptoms, but still, he chose to play while dehydrated. It did not stop him from being a ball monster after scoring 38 points against the Jazz in crucial Game 5.

Significance:

Teams had always a close watch on Jordan since he was the main scorer and a very unstoppable guard of his time. However, playing sick due to virus or food poisoning gave some teams a handicap.

Jordan pushed through it all but struggled in the third frame. However, he bounced back in the fourth frame to rally a 10-0 run, erasing Utah's 77-69 lead.

Rick Barry Leads Warriors to Glory – 1975 Finals, Game 4

Series Situation: Warriors sweep Bullets 4-0.

Playing away from their home arena, the Warriors defied the odds in sweeping through the series. They were unstoppable, especially in Rick Barry, who is the Finals MVP. They scored 36 and 38 points in pivotal games. The Warriors showed their grit and teamwork as they recovered from double-digit deficits many times.

Significance:

This was Golden State's first championship since 1956. Though the team was a bit undersized, great performances from Barry, Jamal Wilkes, and bench scorers like Phil Smith made a difference. The 1975 Finals were the essence of perseverance and strategic excellence.

Isiah Thomas' "Never Give Up" Spirit – 1988 Finals, Game 6

Series Situation: Pistons lead Lakers 3-2.

On a badly sprained ankle, Isiah Thomas delivered a heroic performance, scoring 25 points in the third quarter—a Finals record. With the Pistons rallying, Thomas' courage inspired his team, turning a deficit into a lead heading into the fourth quarter.

Significance:

Thomas's performance is among the most resilient in the history of the NBA. In fact, it compares with Willis Reed's famous Game 7 return in 1970. Despite his heroics, controversial calls and his injury ultimately cost Detroit the series. The Pistons, however, proved that they were one of the toughest teams of the era.

Dallas Mavericks' Epic Comeback – 2011 Finals, Game 2

Series Situation: Heat lead Mavericks 1-0.

With just over seven minutes left, Dwyane Wade's corner three extended Miami's lead to 15. His prolonged celebration ignited the Mavericks, sparking a stunning 22-5 run. Dirk Nowitzki capped the comeback with a decisive layup, evening the series.

Significance:

This moment highlights the Mavericks' resilience to a championship win. When the Heat was premature about being arrogant, it fueled Dallas, making this series one of the most memorable upsets in NBA Finals history.

These iconic moments remind us why the NBA Finals are so revered. From clutch shots to unforgettable comebacks, they show us the essence of basketball—skill, determination, and heart.

As the league evolves, the Finals will continue delivering legendary performances that inspire fans worldwide. We're looking forward to 2025 to bring more clutch moments to all watchers.