Trae Young Posts Cryptic Response To LeBron James Mock Draft Reaction

Sports media is already releasing mock drafts for the 2024 NBA Draft. The 2024 class will be an interesting one, marked by a lack of a consensus first-overall pick. However, there are a number of intriguing collegiate prospects, as well as a wealth of international stars leading the class. However, the biggest question on a lot of people’s minds is where Bronny James might land.

James will be coming off a one-and-done year at USC if he chooses to declare in 2024. Bronny is the #19 prospect in his class and that’s around where most early mock drafts have him going. SB Nation has him at #13, NBA Draft Room has him at #28. Meanwhile, most other outlets have somewhere in-between these two extremes. ESPN, which pairs their draft with actual teams, projected James going at #17 to the Hawks.

This caught the attention of LeBron James, who posted an approving reaction to the selection on Instagram. Subsequently, Trae Young, current franchise star of the Atlanta Hawks, posted a cryptic response on Twitter has the NBA rumor mill buzzing.

Related: Kenny Smith says Bronny making it to the NBA is statistically unlikely

Is Trae Young Pushing For A LeBron Trade?

In response to an NBA Central post hypothesizing a LeBron-Bronny partnership on the Hawks, Young tweeted “Talk soon” in response. This immediately set off the rumor mill that the Hawks might push for a LeBron trade. While a fairly wild reaction to a hypothetical happening nearly a year from now, it is the NBA offseason after all.

However, the consensus opinion among pundits is that LeBron will likely push for a trade next offseason to join Bronny on whatever team drafts him. It’s unlikely that the Lakers will have the chance to grab him. If they pick too high in the first round, the Pelicans will likely use their option to take the pick for themselves. However, too low a pick in the first and it’s unlikely that Bronny would still be on the board. Essentially, the Lakers would have to aim for a first-round playoff exit or low lottery finish to acquire Bronny.

It’s likely that Young is just having some fun in response to the already existing fantasizing. However, it does raise the very valid question of just what LeBron is willing to do to achieve is goal of playing alongside Bronny before he retires. LeBron has two years left on his contract with the Lakers, which has a guaranteed figure of $51.4 million for the 2024-25 season.

Related: Bronny James headed on preseason tour of Europe with USC

2024 NBA Draft Class Goes Well Beyond Bronny

So if Bronny isn’t expected to be a lottery pick, who is? At the top of most people’s lists are three names – Matas Buzelis, Ron Holland, and Zaccharie Risacher. None of them will play in college this season but have the potential to be game-changers in the NBA. Holland (#2 ESPN prospect) and Buzelis (#5 ESPN prospect) both opted to join the G League Ignite. Meanwhile, Risacher currently plays in the French pro league.

In terms of college talent, that pool will be led by USC’s Isaiah Collier (#1 ESPN prospect) and Kentucky’s D.J. Wagner (#4 ESPN prospect). Many pundits are also throwing another Kentucky commit, Justin Edwards (#3 ESPN prospect) into that high-lottery consideration as well. It will be interesting to see what USC can do with Collier and Bronny, as well as watching Kentucky’s expected bounce-back to relevance.

However, as mentioned, the cycle returns to a point where there is not a clear-cut number one. Most expect it to be Buzelis. However, a big season from Collier or a Wagner/Edwards-led National Title run from Kentucky could upset the apple cart. The answers to these questions will begin to clarify themselves over the next few months. All we can do is wait.

Related: Bronny James to wear #6 at USC

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LeBron James Reacts To ESPN’s Mock Draft For Bronny

The question of where Bronny James will land in the 2024 NBA Draft is one that has quickly dominated basketball circles in recent days. Bronny, LeBron’s eldest son, is about to start his freshman year at USC. Many expect him to follow the one-and-done path into the NBA.

However, not everyone has been a fan. Kenny Smith pulled out statistics to argue that Bronny may never make it to the NBA. However, while Smith’s correct purely from a numbers standpoint, it’s hard to see Bronny James going completely undrafted given his last name.

For the time being, mock drafts have him hovering around the tail-end of the lottery. SB Nation has him going at #12. Meanwhile, ESPN, whose mock draft includes specific teams, had him going at #17 to the Hawks. It was this landing spot that caught the eye of LeBron himself.

Related: LeBron James makes bizarre French Montana joke on Instagram

LeBron Reacts To The Hawks Drafting Bronny

Bronny James with LeBron James during a Lakers game.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 07: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts with Bronny James after scoring to pass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Abdul-Jabbar’s career total of 38,387 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena on February 07, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

LeBron shared ESPN‘s image to his Instagram story, adding the caption Welllll ATL shawty the #JamesGang will be pulling up!” Safe to say that James wasn’t opposed to his son heading to Atlanta. The Hawks picking at #17 is based on ESPN‘s internal predictions for the draft order.

However, could that force a trade between the Hawks and Lakers? LeBron has been very clear that he would like to play with Bronny before he retires from the NBA. Furthermore, the Lakers may not have a first-round pick in 2024, as the Pelicans currently hold the option to take the Lakers 2024 or 2025 first-rounder.

LeBron currently has two years remaining on his contract. However, that does include a player option year for 2024-25. As Bronny is likely to land somewhere other than the Lakers come the draft, could we see LeBron push for an opt-in and trade deal?

Related: Bronny James to face Nikola Jokić’s former Serbian team during preseason tour

Bronny To Wear #6 At USC

In other father-son news amongst the James family, Bronny will be honoring his father at USC. On June 22, USC announced that Bronny would wear #6 while playing for the school. While Bronny has long worn the number, it has also been a tribute to his father.

LeBron most famously wore #6 during his time in Miami, forgoing the #23 he had worn during the start of his career in Cleveland. Per LeBron, the #6 has also held special meaning to him, as it links in some way to the birthdays of both Bronny and Bryce. Furthermore, LeBron wore #6 for the Lakers during the 2022-23 season.

However, if Bronny is drafted, he will have to find a new number. Perhaps the most famous player other than LeBron to wear #6 was the legendary Bill Russell. when Russell passed away in 2022, the league made the decision to issue a league-wide retirement for the number.

Related: Bronny James to make USC debut in Vegas versus Kansas State

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Los Angeles Lakers Rookie Takes Fun Shot At LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers came up just short of pulling off a miracle season. The team battled injuries all season long. Including top players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis missing time. However, the team found its groove right at the start of the 2023 NBA Playoffs. The Lakers tallied two series victories before falling in the Western Conference Finals. Although the season didn’t end the way they hoped. The 2022-23 campaign wasn’t a complete failure.

Now the Lakers are in the same boat as everyone else. Every team in the league is looking for the right recipe to slow down Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets. The road to the NBA Finals started with the 2023 NBA Draft. The Lakers introduced the newest members of their squad on Monday. As for Jalen Hood-Schifino, he is already jokingly taking pokes at the bear. Hood-Schifino was only seven days old when LeBron was drafted in 2003. A fact that the media just had to bring up during Hood-Schifino’s first press conference.

Read More: The 2023 NBA Draft Was Pure Chaos

Los Angeles Lakers Ready For Another Deep Playoff Run

Hood-Schifino said he had heard that fact before. “I did see that post on ESPN. I was like ‘Dang, LeBron’s old!” Did he just call LeBron old? Yes, he did. But this time, it was all in good fun. The rookie knows how iconic James is to the league and what he brings to the franchise. We know what happens if you call James old with malice behind your words. You get eliminated from the playoffs and then ran off your own team. Maybe Dillon Brooks will think twice the next time.

It’s no secret that the sands in the hourglass are fewer and fewer for James. On Monday, fans celebrated the 20 anniversary of the 2003 NBA Draft class. A class filled with talent from top to bottom. However, James isn’t worried about age, he’s worried about chasing another ring. A fifth to add to his already massive trophy room. Question is, can James and the Lakers reach the mountaintop one more time? Let us know what you think in the comment section. For the latest news in sports, keep it right here with HNHH.

Read More: Dwyane Wade Gives NBA Draftees Some Crucial Advice

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NBA Draft 2003: Fans Look Back On Loaded Class 20 Years Later

The 2023 NBA Draft just wrapped last week. Fans witnessed Victor Wembanyama hear his name called with the first overall pick. Wembanyama has already been advertised as the next big thing to step on the hardwood this coming season. However, many believe that this class was very top-heavy and filled with talent. But those statements have been said about many draft classes that have come before them. Although one class may stand the test of time.

Monday marks the 20th anniversary of the 2003 NBA Draft. A draft that is now remembered and revered as one of the greatest in NBA history. Of course, the number one overall pick that year was LeBron James. James has gone on to have a stellar career. At least, I think many would agree with that. Also names like Carmelo Anthony, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, and David West were also called that night. Throughout the day, fans have been reminiscing on such a stacked draft.

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LeBron James Leads 2003 NBA Draft Class

Yes, this anniversary probably doesn’t sit well with Detroit Pistons fans. The franchise selected Darko Milicic with the second overall pick. Milicic’s career never panned out. Leaving fans to daydream over Anthony, Wade, and Bosh potentially playing for Detroit. However, nobody should expect every pick to turn into a Hall of Fame caliber player. But don’t tell that to a Pistons fan. The wound has to be still fresh from such a massive draft night miss.

Since 2003, many have wondered when the next superclass could make its way to the NBA. One has to wonder that if Wembanyama becomes the star he’s destined to be, could the rest of the 2023 class follow his lead? It would be poetic to see a draft class 20 years later become the next great generation of the NBA. However, someone has to take the mantle. James will enter his 20th year in the league this upcoming season. Time is ticking on the 2003 class. Who is ready to lead the next generation? For the latest news in sports, keep it locked in here at HNHH.

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Bronny James Honors LeBron With USC Jersey Choice

Bronny James will begin his college career on November 6 against the Kansas State Wildcats. Ranked as the #19 prospect of the 2023 class, James has gotten a lot of hype thanks to his famous father, NBA legend LeBron James.

James joins a USC team that has suffered first-round March Madness losses in back-to-back years. However, the Trojans are also looking to make history this season. If they can make it back to March Madness, it will be the first time that the program has appeared in four consecutive tournaments. They hope to achieve this behind James, and the class’ #1 recruit Isaiah Collier.

The hype has been steadily building ever since James officially committed in May 2023. This has also led to accusations that USC is implementing a “Bronny Tax” on ticket prices. However, James has now made a major announcement that he plans to honor his father with his jersey number.

Related: Bronny James reps Chrome Hearts for his senior prom

Bronny James To Wear #6 At USC

Per USC’s social media, Bronny James will wear the #6 jersey this season. Six is a special number for the James family. Bronny was born October 6 while his younger brother Bryce was born in June, the sixth month of the year. These are two reasons that LeBron James adopted the number when he signed with Miami Heat in 2011. Furthermore, LeBron once again adopted the #6 jersey for his most recent season with the LA Lakers.

However, neither James nor his son (if he makes it to the NBA) will be able to wear #6 at the pro level. The jersey number was retired league-wide following the death of Bill Russell. Despite this, it’s clear that Bronny is paying homage to his father with his USC jersey choice.

While LeBron has not yet confirmed his return to the NBA next season, sources believe that it is more likely than not. If LeBron does stay with the Lakers, he will be playing just 1.5 miles from Bronny. Furthermore, LeBron has previously stated that he wants to play alongside Bronny in the NBA before he retires.

Related: Kenny Smith makes wild claim about Bronny James’ NBA chances

Bronny James Headed Abroad For Preseason Tour

Bronny James poses during the NBA playoffs
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 28: Bronny James, son of LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers, reacts after the basketball game between Los Angeles Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies Round 1 Game 6 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on April 28, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

However, before James takes the court in Vegas or at the Galen Center, USC are heading to Europe. The Trojans will play a series of games in Greece and Croatia this summer, taking on several professional teams.

While the full schedule is yet to be announced, the most notable team revealed so far is Mega MIS. A perennial contender in the Serbian league, Mega MIS is best known as the team where two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić got his start before being drafted into the NBA.

The Trojans will take on the Serbian outfit in a pair of games on the island of Mykonos. USC will also play in Athens, where James’ father won Olympic bronze in 2004. Beyond the preseason tour and Vegas opener, it remains to be seen what the rest of USC’s schedule has in store for Bronny in what could be his only year in the NCAA.

Related: 2023 NBA Draft recap

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Brian Windhorst Delivers Wild LeBron-Victor Wembanyama Hot Take

Brian Windhorst is someone who has been around NBA prospects for a very long time. Back in the day, he was the man in charge of following LeBron James. Subsequently, when James got to the league, Windy continued to follow James around. Although some people would roast Windhorst for this, a lot of people have grown to love him. Overall, he has some very solid insights, and there are times when he has a scoop that other reporters just don’t get.

On the night of the draft lottery, Brian Windhorst was in France where he was with Victor Wembanyama. Wembanyama is by far one of the most hyped prospects since LeBron James. For many, this was the Wembanyama draft. He is a tall player who is incredibly versatile. It is hard to imagine him not doing well in the NBA, especially when you consider everything that he can do out on the basketball court.

Read More: Victor Wembanyama Throws Terrible First Pitch At New York Yankees Game

Brian Windhorst Speaks

However, the Wembanyama hot takes are already getting a bit wild out there. For instance, Brian Windhorst was on First Take today where he got to talk about the similarities between LeBron James and Victor Wembanyama. As you will see above, Windhorst is so high on Wemby that he believes the young man is actually better at his current age than LeBron was at that same age. “I think [Wembanyama’s] skill set … is ahead of where LeBron was at the same age,” Windhorst said with no sarcasm in his voice.

For a lot of fans, this is going to be a wild statement to make. After all, Wembanyama has yet to prove anything in the NBA. He hasn’t even played a preseason game yet. Moreover, his frame is one that typically gets injured, and there is no telling how he will hold up. Let us know what you think of this new hot take, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

Read More: San Antonio Spurs Win Victor Wembanyama Lottery

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Skip Bayless Hates On LeBron In Yet Another Unique Way

Skip Bayless is easily one of the most interesting men in the entire sports broadcasting world. Although a lot of people hate him, he is someone who refuses to stop being himself. Overall, you truly have to admire him for that. Moreover, you can’t help but admire how persistent he is when it comes to going after the likes of LeBron James. For years, Skip has tried to diminish the King’s accomplishments. Despite all that he is done, Bayless continues to be a thorn in James’ side.

Recently, NBA prospect Brandon Miller was asked about which NBA players he would consider to be the GOATs of the sport. In his eyes, he felt as though Paul George was the best player ever. He even went so far as to say that George is better than LeBron. Additionally, he spoke about none other than Michael Jordan and how he really isn’t all that impressed by him. Subsequently, this led to a whole lot of discourse on Twitter.

Read More: Ja Morant Reportedly Refused Skip Bayless & Lil Wayne’s Attempts To Help Him

Never Change, Skip Bayless

Of course, Skip Bayless inserted himself into all of this, in the funniest way possible. Above, Bayless used some bizarre logic to explain how Miller was actually making LeBron out to be better than Jordan, which is simply not acceptable. “My issue with Brandon Miller isn’t that he thinks Paul George is better than LeBron,” Skip wrote. “It’s that his statement presumes LeBron is better than Jordan. THAT’S what now makes me wonder about Brandon Miller.” Predictable, but still very funny.

Ultimately, this whole saga of Skip hating on LeBron has been interesting to watch over the years. LeBron has yet to acknowledge Bayless, and he likely never will. However, you can’t help but admit it would be funny if he did. Let us know what you think of Skip’s take, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world. We will always be sure to keep you informed of the biggest stories.

Read More: Stephen A. Smith Heaps Praise On Skip Bayless

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LeBron James Feels Rihanna’s Baby Bump: Watch

LeBron James and Rihanna have been very good friends for a very long time. Overall, there were even rumors back in the day that Rihanna had a thing for James. However, that never actually materialized and was mostly a narrative pushed by fans. Either way, they have been friendly for a long time, even if they haven’t seen each other in a while. The two live very busy lives. Firstly, LeBron has an NBA career that always has him on the move. Secondly, Rihanna is a massive artist who runs a super successful business.

Additionally, Rihanna is currently pregnant with her second child with ASAP Rocky. Overall, this is a very joyous occasion for the artist. She has been proudly rocking her baby bump and has shown it off everywhere she goes. This was also true in Paris this past week as she got to enjoy fashion week. She was there with ASAP Rocky, who has been referring to her as his wife. As it turns out, while there, she actually got to run into LeBron.

Read More: Michael Malone Trolls LeBron James With Retirement Joke

LeBron James & Rihanna

In the video above, you can see what this meeting of the minds looked like. Overall, they seemed extremely happy to see each other. Moreover, LeBron rubbed her baby bump and seemed very excited for her. Ultimately, this was a meet-up of two of the most famous people in the world. Furthermore, it must be a nice time for LeBron, who gets to take some much-needed time off after his 20th season in the NBA. Unfortunately, the video cuts off pretty quickly, so we don’t get to see the rest of the interaction.

Either way, it is nice to see these two friends reunited, even if for a short time. Perhaps her and Rocky can come out to some Lakers games next year. With the offseason on the horizon, the Lakers have an opportunity to get a whole lot better. Let us know what you think of this meetup, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the music world and beyond.

Read More: LeBron James And Draymond Green Spotted In France Together

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Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen X Titan Releasing In 2023

The Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen is a groundbreaking basketball shoe that embodies innovation and performance. Designed in collaboration with LeBron James, this next-generation model pushes the boundaries of technology and style. In addition, the Zoom Air cushioning system provides responsive and explosive energy return, ensuring maximum comfort and impact protection on the court. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual player, the Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen is engineered to elevate your game and make a bold statement on the court.

Titan, a Philippine-based retailer, has become a prominent name in the world of sneakers and streetwear. With a mission to create a unique retail experience, Titan offers an extensive selection of curated products from renowned brands. Known for its collaborations with both local and international artists, athletes, and designers, Titan constantly pushes the boundaries of creativity. They have collaborated with LeBron’s signature sneaker in a big way.

Read More: LeBron James And Draymond Green Spotted In France Together

Titan X Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen

Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen
Image via Nike

The Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen X Titan is a cutting-edge basketball shoe collaboration. Designed with input from LeBron James, this model combines performance and style. Also, it features responsive Zoom Air cushioning for comfortable impact protection on the court. The sneaker features an almost all-yellow upper with accents of blue on the Nike Swoosh, heel, and tongue. THe sneaker also features a smaller red Swoosh and a LeBron logo on the heel. Perfect for athletes or casual players, this sneaker will raise your game while making a fashion statement.

More Photos

Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen X Titan will release at some point in 2023. Also, these sneakers will have a retail price of $160 when they drop. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.

Image via Nike
Image via Nike
Nike Zoom LeBron NXXT Gen
Image via Nike

Read More: Michael Malone Trolls LeBron James With Retirement Joke

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The 7 Best NBA Finals Of All Time, Ranked

The Denver Nuggets made history last Monday night (June 12), conquering the Miami Heat in five games to claim the coveted NBA Championship. The riveting Game 5 averaged an impressive 11.64 million viewers, according to the NBA. Only the elite ascend to the NBA Finals, a mecca where spellbinding moments of honor and agony, have been immortalized. Michael Jordan’s nonchalant shrug, Magic Johnson’s five-position game, Allen Iverson stepping over Tyronn Lue. And who could forget Ray Allen’s heroic three-pointer at the buzzer or Willis Reed hobbling onto the court despite injury? A remarkable tapestry that speaks to the heights of human achievement. In pursuit of the greatest NBA Finals of all time, we seek not only an exemplary collective performance, but also individual standouts: dazzling one-on-one duels, scintillating breakout performances, and defining moments that resonate with lasting significance.

7. Chicago Bulls Vs. Phoenix Suns (1993)

Chicago Bulls and Phoenix Suns during Game 4 of the 1993 NBA FInals.
Basketball: NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls Michael Jordan (23) in action vs Phoenix Suns at United Center. Game 4.
Chicago, IL 6/16/1993
CREDIT: Manny Millan (Photo by Manny Millan /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X44517 )

Riding on the back of an MVP season, Charles Barkley and his Phoenix Suns surged through the Western Conference. Yet, when they faced off against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls at home, Games 1 and 2 proved to be overwhelming defeats. While they took a hard-fought Game 3 in overtime at the United Center, Jordan retaliated with a monumental 55-point outing in Game 4. Averaging an astounding 41 points for the entire series, it was clear who the true MVP was. Finally, John Paxson’s iconic game-winning jump shot in Game 6 clinched the championship for Jordan and the Bulls, marking their first three-peat and solidifying MJ as basketball royalty.

Read More: Skip Bayless Makes The NBA Finals About LeBron James

6. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Philadelphia 76ers (1980)

Magic Johnson of the LA Lakers and Julius Irving of Philadelphia 76ers during Game 4 of the 1980 NBA Finals.
Basketball: NBA Finals: Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson (32) in action, shot vs Philadelphia 76ers Julius Erving (6). Game 4. Philadelphia, PA 5/11/1980 CREDIT: Manny Millan (Photo by Manny Millan /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X24508 )

The 1980 NBA Finals saw a battle between the experienced and the youth, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 33.4 averages indicative of his veteran finesse. Then, it was Magic Johnson’s turn; the rookie filled in for an injured Abdul-Jabbar in Game 6 and delivered a masterful performance, commanding all five positions to accumulate 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists in a game-winning 123-107 victory. It was a coming-out party for Magic; he announced himself as a star of the future, guiding the Lakers to decades of success. Meanwhile, classic footage of Dr. J’s now famous baseline reverse layup happened during Game 4.

Read More: Five Best Kobe Bryant Sneakers To Cop For The NBA Finals

5. Spurs Vs. Heat (2013)

Considered one of the best NBA Finals of all time, Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs and <a href=Lebron James of the Miami Heat go head-to-head during Game 6 during the 2013 Finals. ” class=”wp-image-689220″ srcset=”https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GettyImages-170061203.jpg 1024w, https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GettyImages-170061203-300×213.jpg 300w, https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GettyImages-170061203-768×546.jpg 768w” sizes=”(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px” />
MIAMI, FL – JUNE 06: Tony Parker #9 of the San Antonio Spurs goes up for a shot against LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat in the first quarter during Game One of the 2013 NBA Finals at AmericanAirlines Arena on June 6, 2013 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

The Spurs surged ahead 3-2 in the series after a decisive win in Game 5. Led by Tony Parker, they built a 13-point advantage late in the third quarter of Game 6. Then Lebron James took over, masterfully rallying Miami to snatch the lead with 6:03 left. Undeterred, Parker retaliated with five swift points, securing a 93-89 lead for San Antonio with 40 seconds left. Manu Ginobili ensured victory by sinking a crucial free throw with 28 seconds remaining. Celebrations edged closer as San Antonio prepared to clinch until James’ miraculous 3-pointer kept Miami alive. With 22.9 seconds on the clock, Kawhi Leonard made it a two-possession game, yet still, James stayed undaunted, finding Chris Bosh for one of the most legendary shots in NBA history. Crowned champions in overtime, Miami solidified its legacy behind James’ memorable 32-point performance in Game 7.

Read More: Lil Wayne Ranks LeBron James, Michael Jordan, And Kobe Bryant In GOAT Debate

4.  Chicago Bulls Vs. Utah Jazz (1997)

Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz during game 2 of the 1997 NBA Finals.
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES: Chicago Bulls player Michael Jordan sticks out his tongue as he goes past Jeff Hornacek of the Utah Jazz 04 June during game two of the NBA Finals at the United Center in Chicago, IL. The Bulls lead the best-of-seven series 1-0. AFP PHOTO/Vincent LAFORET (Photo credit should read VINCENT LAFORET/AFP via Getty Images)

MJ’s greatness was indisputable, as seen in his famed Flu Game. Everyone still remembers his heroic 38-point performance in Utah—a crucial three to tie the game sealed the Bulls’ 3-2 series lead. Yet, other narratives captivated viewers. Karl Malone took MVP honors with 27.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.4 steals, despite MJ averaging 29.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.7 steals on a 69-13 Bulls team. Undeterred, Jordan drove forward to snatch the Larry O’Brien trophy from the Jazz’s grasp.

Read More: Michael Jordan Signed “Flu Game” Sneakers Sell For Huge Price At Auction

3.  Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Detroit Pistons (1988)

UNITED STATES – JUNE 14: Basketball: finals, Detroit Pistons Isiah Thomas (11) in action, taking layup vs Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit, MI 6/14/1988 (Photo by Richard Mackson/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (SetNumber: X36723 TK7)

The Showtime Lakers and Bad Boy Pistons clashed in a thrilling exhibition of contrasting basketball ideologies. Magic Johnson of LA outweighed Isiah Thomas of Detroit, making for an enthralling match-up. After Pat Riley promised a repeat of the championship parade in Los Angeles, the defending champions had a target on their back for the whole season. 

The first five games were split between Detroit and Los Angeles with no game being decided by single-digits. Pontiac Silverdome was bid farewell as Detroit defeated the Lakers 104-94 to take a 3-2 series lead. However, in Game 6, Isiah Thomas suffered a rolled right ankle yet still scored 11 of Detroit’s last 15 points, pushing them to an 81-79 lead. Ultimately, a neck-to-neck finish saw the Lakers win 103-102, extending the series. James Worthy dominated Game 7, delivering a 36-16-10 line to lead the Lakers to back-to-back championships. Thus, earning him the moniker of Big Game James.

Read More: Michael Jordan & Isiah Thomas Beef: A Breakdown

2. Los Angeles Lakers Vs. Boston Celtics (1984)

Larry Bird of the Celtics and Magic Johnson of the Lakers during Game 1 of 1984 NBA Finals.
Basketball: NBA Finals: Boston Celtics Larry Bird (33) in action, layup vs Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson (32). Game 1.
Boston, MA 5/27/1984
CREDIT: Carl Skalak (Photo by Carl Skalak /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X30077 TK1 R5 )

Bird and Johnson, two icons, had yet to face off in the Finals for the first four years of their careers. That changed in 1984, however, with a series that lasted seven games and featured an unforgettable clothesline from Kevin McHale on Kurt Ramis. On every level, this matchup lived up to the hype—Bird averaged 27.4 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists for the Celtics, ultimately taking home MVP honors as his team emerged triumphant in Game 7. Johnson’s averages weren’t far behind at 18.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 13.6 assists. It was an epic battle that kick-started a golden era of NBA basketball, propelling the league into mainstream stardom on the backs of Bird’s and Johnson’s fierce rivalry.

Read More: Top 10 Best NBA Finals Series Of All Time

1. Cavaliers Vs. Warriors (2016)

Lebron James and Klay Thompson during NBA Finals 2016.
CLEVELAND, OH – JANUARY 18: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers posts up against Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on January 18, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Down 3-1, LeBron James’ mission was clear: to deliver a championship to Cleveland. It was a feat he had been determined to achieve ever since joining the Cavaliers in 2003. Yet, achieving this goal seemed impossible when pitted against the Warriors’ historic 73-9 record. But LeBron and Kyrie Irving were unstoppable together, culminating in an epic Game 7 victory. In one legendary series, LeBron earned his place as the greatest player of all time.

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