Talk About Iconic! The Most Memorable Moments in NBA History
The NBA has served as the stage for some of the most breathtaking and unforgettable moments in sports history. From game-changing shots to gravity-defying dunks, the league has witnessed a plethora of iconic instances that have left an indelible mark on the basketball world. Join us as we dive into the top 10 seminal moments in NBA history; who knows, you might even recall a few.
Whether you’ve been lucky enough to have watched these historical moments as they unfolded – live or on TV – or are hoping to be present for yet another slam dunk to make history, it’s undeniable the NBA is one beautiful sport! It also has a great deal of sports fans who turn into punters who try and cash in on much-anticipated games, and why not? If you can possibly cash in on a good performance, it’ll only add to the fun and adrenaline juices. And if you are one such NBA fan, we recommend you sign up with Casumo Casino, a provider that caters to all popular sporting events. However, before registering, we do suggest reading this great review written by no deposit free spins specialists at FreeSpinsTracker.
1. Michael Jordan’s Gaming Winning Shot
In a pivotal playoff game on May 7, 1989, Michael Jordan solidified his legacy with a legendary game-winning shot that eliminated the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 5 of the first round. This iconic moment has left an indelible mark on sports history, so much so that the unforgettable image inspired Nike’s Air Jordan brand’s iconic Jumpman logo.
2. Larry Bird’s Steal and Pass
During Game 5 of the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals, Larry Bird executed an unforgettable play that has since become legendary in NBA history. With the score tied and time running out, Bird intercepted an inbound pass, swiftly passing the ball to Dennis Johnson, who scored the game-winning layup. This momentous play highlighted Bird’s exceptional basketball intelligence and his ability to deliver under pressure.
3. LeBron’s Iconic Block
The 2016 NBA Finals, pitting the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Golden State Warriors, witnessed a historic moment. In Game 7, with the score tied at 89-89, LeBron James delivered a game-saving block against Andre Iguodala’s layup seconds before the final buzzer. This iconic defensive play propelled the game into double overtime, shifting momentum in Cleveland’s favor.
4. Steph Curry’s 3-Point Season
Steph Curry shattered his own record for the most 3-pointers made in a single season, reaching an astounding total of 402. His remarkable achievement during the 2015-2016 NBA season, not only showcased his unparalleled shooting prowess but also sparked a revolution in the game, with numerous teams placing greater emphasis on the 3-point shot.
5. Kobe Bryant’s 81-Point Game
Kobe Bryant stunned the basketball world by scoring 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors back in 2016, marking the second-highest point total ever recorded in NBA history. This extraordinary scoring display is widely regarded as one of the most remarkable feats in sports history, cementing Bryant’s legacy as one of the all-time greats in basketball.
6. Bill Russell’s 11 Championships
Bill Russell achieved an unparalleled feat in NBA history by clinching 11 NBA championships throughout his illustrious career, a record yet to be surpassed. Renowned for his exceptional defensive prowess and rebounding abilities, Russell’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Boston Celtics through an era marked by unparalleled dominance in NBA history.
7. Shaq vs. The Backboard
Backboards didn’t stand a chance against Shaq during his rookie season in 1993. The then 21-year-old cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with before a dunk so ferocious that it demolished the backboard, sending shards of glass cascading onto the court. Not only did this remarkable feat of athleticism showcase Shaq’s prowess early in his career, but it also sparked a significant shift in NBA history, leading the league to reinforce the structural integrity of hoops in all arenas.
8. Magic Johnson’s “Baby Hook”
During Game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals, Magic Johnson executed a game-winning “baby hook” in the final moments, propelling the Los Angeles Lakers to victory against the Boston Celtics. This shot is universally hailed as one of the most clutch moments in NBA history.
9. Hakeem Olajuwon’s “Dream Shake”
The “Dream Shake” move, pioneered by Hakeem Olajuwon, stands as one of the most renowned maneuvers in NBA history. Olajuwon’s deceptive feint followed by a swift spin often left defenders grasping at air. This signature move played a pivotal role in establishing Olajuwon as one of the most formidable centers in NBA history.
10. Dennis Rodman’s Hair
During the 1990s and early 2000s, Rodman’s hair often garnered more attention than his on-court performance as a member of the Chicago Bulls. Each week, Rodman would debut a new shade, pattern, or style, captivating audiences with his ever-changing appearance. This captivating spectacle remains a highlight, as evidenced by Netflix’s acclaimed documentary “The Last Dance.”
