Thinking back to Michael Jordan’s career, the moment that always stands out is “The Shot” against the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1989. Watching Jordan sink that 17-foot jumper over Craig Ehlo with just 3 seconds on the clock to win the game 101-100 was nothing short of legendary. You see, this wasn’t just any game; it was Game 5 of the first round of the NBA playoffs, and the Bulls needed a win. This game-winning shot came after MJ had already dropped 44 points, showcasing why he’s widely regarded as the GOAT. If you’re into stats, Jordan’s playoff career averages of 33.4 points per game further cement his spot at the top.
Then we’ve got Magic Johnson who completely redefined the point guard position. Who could forget his performance in Game 6 of the 1980 NBA Finals? As a rookie, Magic started at center in place of the injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and led the Lakers to a 123-107 victory. In that game, he scored 42 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists. This wasn’t just any rookie—Magic was special, and his ability to play all five positions effectively shattered the mold for what a point guard could do. His career total of 10,141 assists places him fifth on the all-time list, demonstrating how his vision and versatility changed the game.
When you look at Larry Bird, several moments capture his legacy, but perhaps none more so than the 1984 NBA Finals. This was the year Bird earned his second Finals MVP by leading the Boston Celtics to a seven-game victory over the Lakers. Averaging 27.4 points and 14 rebounds per game during those Finals, Bird showed what makes a player clutch. His rivalry with Magic Johnson not only produced some of the most exciting games but also revitalized the entire league. Their individual competition captured the spirit of the '80s NBA and brought in countless fans who otherwise might have never watched basketball.
Another defining moment came from Shaquille O'Neal during the 2000 NBA Finals. Leading the Lakers to their first championship since 1988, Shaq averaged 38 points and 16.7 rebounds over six games against the Indiana Pacers. As effective as he was powerful, Shaq’s absolute dominance in the paint made him nearly unstoppable. Collecting three Finals MVP awards consecutively from 2000-2002, his low-post scoring, shot-blocking, and rebounding made him a cornerstone for the Lakers’ early 2000s dynasty. Shaquille’s career points tally of 28,596 ranks eighth on the all-time scoring list, proving his offensive prowess.
The late Kobe Bryant has had numerous memorable moments, and it's tough to choose just one. However, his 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006 is often the first that comes to mind. In this awe-inspiring performance, Kobe shot 28-of-46 from the field (61%) and went 7-of-13 from beyond the arc. He single-handedly outscored the Raptors in the third quarter, with 27 points to Toronto’s 22. What’s remarkable is that it was the second-highest single-game scoring performance in NBA history, behind only Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game. Kobe’s killer instinct and relentless scoring ability were on full display that night.
Now, speaking of Wilt Chamberlain, his 100-point game in 1962 stands as one of the most unbreakable records in sports history. Playing for the Philadelphia Warriors against the New York Knicks, Wilt scored in every conceivable way: dunks, layups, hook shots, and even free throws. Completing this historic performance, Wilt made 36 of 63 field-goal attempts and 28 of 32 free throws. His career averages of 30.1 points and 22.9 rebounds per game highlight his utter dominance on both ends of the floor. Despite the game not being televised and no existing footage, this achievement remains legendary in the lore of basketball.
If you ever wanted to see a triple-double machine in action, you’d look at Oscar Robertson. In the 1961-62 season, Robertson averaged a triple-double for the entire season—30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game. This feat seemed like something that might never be matched, until Russell Westbrook came along decades later. Robertson's ability to influence every aspect of the game makes him one of the most complete players ever to grace the hardwood. His career totals of 26,710 points and 9,887 assists place him among the elite in NBA history.
Flash forward to a more recent era, and who could overlook LeBron James, particularly his Game 7 performance in the 2016 NBA Finals? Leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a historic comeback from a 3-1 deficit against the 73-win Golden State Warriors, LeBron was on another level. In that pivotal Game 7, he recorded a triple-double with 27 points, 11 rebounds, as well as 11 assists. Most famously, he made “The Block” on Andre Iguodala, a play that will be replayed for generations. LeBron’s impact on the game can also be quantified: he’s the only player in history with over 35,000 points, 9,000 rebounds, and 9,000 assists.
Tim Duncan’s quiet dominance often flew under the radar, but his performance in the 2003 NBA Finals was anything but quiet. Leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 4-2 series victory over the New Jersey Nets, Duncan averaged 24.2 points, 17 rebounds, and 5.3 blocks per game. His composure and fundamentals earned him the nickname "The Big Fundamental," and his five championships and three Finals MVPs indicate the degree of his success. Duncan’s longevity also adds to his legacy, as he played 19 seasons, all with the Spurs, and left as the franchise leader in points, rebounds, and blocks.
How about an overseas sensation now? Enter Dirk Nowitzki, who solidified his career with an incredible run in the 2011 NBA Finals. Leading the Dallas Mavericks to victory over the Miami Heat's "Big Three," Dirk earned the Finals MVP by averaging 26 points and 9.7 rebounds. His defining moment came in Game 2 when he scored the Mavericks' final 9 points, including the game-winning layup, to complete a 15-point comeback in the last seven minutes. Dirk’s unique playing style—a seven-footer who could shoot from anywhere—earned him a record of 31,560 career points, the most by any foreign-born player in NBA history.
Each of these moments and players have their own set of numbers to back up their greatness. Whether it’s clutch scoring, game-changing assists, or dominant defensive plays, they’ve all made their mark. For a closer look at these legends and their unforgettable moments, you can explore more about them nba legends.