The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been home to some of the most iconic moments in sports history. From clutch shots to breathtaking dunks, the NBA has seen it all. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 plays in NBA history and how they’ve left a lasting impact on the game.
1. Michael Jordan’s Game-Winning Shot vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (1989)
In the 1989 playoffs, Michael Jordan hit one of the most famous shots in NBA history. With only three seconds left on the clock and the score tied, Jordan drove to the basket and hit a game-winning jumper to eliminate the Cleveland Cavaliers.
2. Kobe Bryant’s Game-Winner vs. Phoenix Suns (2006)
Kobe Bryant is widely considered one of the greatest players in NBA history, and his 2006 game-winning shot against the Phoenix Suns is a testament to his greatness. With only 5.2 seconds left in the game and the score tied, Bryant hit a game-winning fadeaway jumper to give the Lakers the victory.
3. LeBron James’ Dunk vs. Detroit Pistons (2007)
LeBron James is known for his incredible athleticism and powerful dunks, and his dunk against the Detroit Pistons in 2007 is one of his best. James drove to the basket and threw down a thunderous dunk that brought the crowd to its feet.
4. Magic Johnson’s “Baby Hook” Shot vs. Boston Celtics (1987)
In Game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals, Magic Johnson hit one of the most memorable shots in NBA history. With only two seconds left on the clock and the score tied, Johnson hit a baby hook shot to give the Lakers a dramatic victory over the Boston Celtics.
5. Larry Bird’s Steal and Assist vs. Detroit Pistons (1987)
In Game 5 of the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals, Larry Bird showed why he’s considered one of the greatest players in NBA history. With only five seconds left in the game, Bird stole the ball and dished out a no-look assist to Dennis Johnson for the game-winning layup.
6. Dwight Howard’s One-Handed Dunk vs. Dallas Mavericks (2009)
Dwight Howard is known for his incredible athleticism and powerful dunks, and his one-handed dunk against the Dallas Mavericks in 2009 is one of the best. Howard drove to the basket and threw down a monstrous one-handed dunk that brought the crowd to its feet.
7. Shaquille O’Neal’s Dunk Over Alonzo Mourning (2000)
In Game 1 of the 2000 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Shaquille O’Neal showed why he’s one of the most dominant big men in NBA history. O’Neal drove to the basket and threw down a monstrous dunk over Alonzo Mourning that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
8. Hakeem Olajuwon’s Dream Shake vs. Seattle Supersonics (1994)
In Game 2 of the 1994 NBA Finals, Hakeem Olajuwon showed why he’s one of the greatest post players in NBA history. Olajuwon hit a patented “Dream Shake” move to give the Houston Rockets a critical victory over the Seattle Supersonics.
9. Dirk Nowitzki’s Game-Winning Shot vs. Miami Heat (2011)
In Game 2 of the 2011 NBA Finals, Dirk Nowitzki hit one of the most memorable shots in NBA history. With only seconds left in the game and the score tied, Nowitzki hit a game-winning fadeaway jumper to give the Mavericks a critical victory over the Miami Heat
10. Allen Iverson’s Crossover on Tyronn Lue (2001)
In Game 1 of the 2001 NBA Finals, Allen Iverson left his mark on the league with one of the most iconic moves in NBA history. Iverson dribbled past several defenders and hit a devastating crossover on Tyronn Lue, leaving him flat-footed and unable to defend the shot.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the NBA has seen some of the most memorable plays in sports history, and these top 10 plays will always be remembered as some of the best. From Michael Jordan’s game-winning shot to Allen Iverson’s crossover, these plays have left a lasting impact on the game of basketball. And with the popularity of sports betting, the NBA point spread has become an important aspect of the game for many fans and bettors. Whether you’re a fan of the game or just love to place a wager, the NBA has something for everyone.