Every year, the NBA Finals deliver some of basketball’s most memorable and dramatic moments. However, certain playoff series stand tall above the rest due to their intensity, high stakes, historic performances, and lasting legacy. In this article, we rank the five greatest playoff series in NBA Finals history. These selections are based on the quality of competition, importance in NBA history, and the unforgettable moments that defined them.
1. 2016 NBA Finals – Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Golden State Warriors
This series is widely regarded as the greatest Finals of all time. The Golden State Warriors were the defending champions and had just completed a record-setting 73-win regular season. They took a commanding 3-1 series lead, and statistically, all odds pointed to a repeat title for them. However, the Cavaliers, led by LeBron James and Kyrie Irving, achieved the impossible by winning three straight games to claim Cleveland’s first NBA title.
Key moment: LeBron James’ iconic chase-down block in Game 7, followed by Irving’s clutch three-pointer over Stephen Curry, remains etched in basketball history.
Significance: It was the first time in NBA history a team came back from a 3-1 deficit in the Finals.
2. 1984 NBA Finals – Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The 1984 Finals was a defining chapter in the legendary Celtics-Lakers rivalry that shaped the NBA during the ’80s. This series featured Larry Bird and Magic Johnson in their prime and went a full seven games, marked by physical play, dramatic momentum shifts, and nail-biting finishes. Boston eventually triumphed, capturing their 15th NBA championship.
Key moment: Game 4 went into overtime with the Celtics tying the series 2-2 in a must-win scenario, showcasing the grit and rivalry between the teams.
Significance: The success and popularity of this series are credited with helping the NBA rise from a financially troubled league to a global sports powerhouse.
3. 1998 NBA Finals – Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz
Michael Jordan’s final Finals appearance as a member of the Chicago Bulls could not have been more storybook. The Bulls entered the series vying for their sixth title in eight years. The Utah Jazz, featuring John Stockton and Karl Malone, pushed them to the limit.
Key moment: In Game 6, with Chicago down by three, Jordan scored, stole the ball from Malone, then sank “The Shot” over Byron Russell to seal the championship.
Significance: This game immortalized Jordan’s legendary status and marked the end of a dynasty.
4. 2013 NBA Finals – Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs
This series featured absolute brilliance from both teams. The San Antonio Spurs were seconds from winning the championship in Game 6 when Ray Allen hit one of the most clutch three-pointers in NBA history, forcing overtime and a Game 7. Miami won the series in seven games, securing LeBron’s second NBA title.
Key moment: Ray Allen’s incredible corner three in Game 6 is still considered one of the most clutch plays in basketball history.
Significance: The dramatic turn of events between Game 6 and Game 7 defines the razor-thin margin between champions and runners-up.
5. 1970 NBA Finals – New York Knicks vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The 1970 Finals featured the New York Knicks winning their first championship against the powerhouse Lakers, led by Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, and Elgin Baylor. What set this series apart was the determination and drama surrounding Game 7.
Key moment: Knicks captain Willis Reed stunned the crowd by walking onto the court despite a torn thigh muscle, hitting the first two shots of the game and giving his team inspiration that led to a blowout victory.
Significance: Reed’s heroics became one of the most iconic moments in sports history and elevated Madison Square Garden to legendary status.
Conclusion
The NBA Finals are more than just a championship series; they are moments that define legacies. From comeback stories to fierce rivalries and all-time performances, these five series represent the pinnacle of what basketball can offer. They’re historical milestones that showcase the passion, drama, and excellence that make the NBA Finals an unparalleled sporting spectacle.