The NBA is a league filled with unforgettable moments and high-stakes drama, showcasing some of the best NBA game performances in basketball history. Over the past decade, these matchups have defined excellence, passion, and the art of competition. Let’s relive 10 incredible games that left fans talking for years.
1. 2021 NBA Finals: Bucks vs. Suns (Game 5)
This game was a masterclass in resilience by the Milwaukee Bucks and is often hailed as a best NBA game of the decade. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Jrue Holiday combined their talents to secure a thrilling 123-119 win over the Phoenix Suns. The defining moment came when Holiday stole the ball from Devin Booker and lobbed a perfect alley-oop to Giannis, who delivered a thunderous dunk. This game shifted the momentum of the series, paving the way for Milwaukee’s first championship in 50 years.
2. 2016 NBA Finals: Cavaliers vs. Warriors (Game 7)
Arguably one of the best NBA games in history, this showdown saw the Cleveland Cavaliers make history by overcoming a 3-1 deficit to defeat the 73-9 Warriors. LeBron James sealed his legacy with a jaw-dropping chase-down block on Andre Iguodala, while Kyrie Irving hit a dagger three-pointer to clinch the 93-89 victory. This game gave Cleveland its first NBA title and cemented LeBron’s place among the all-time greats.
3. 2019 NBA Finals: Raptors vs. Warriors (Game 6)
The Toronto Raptors captured their first-ever championship in this iconic matchup. Kawhi Leonard was unstoppable throughout the series, but the Warriors’ injuries to Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson added drama. Despite these challenges, the Warriors fought valiantly. The Raptors’ 114-110 victory not only brought Canada its first NBA title but also proved the power of teamwork and persistence.
4. 2020 Playoffs: Nuggets vs. Clippers (Game 7)
The Denver Nuggets shocked the basketball world by coming back from a 3-1 deficit against the heavily favored Los Angeles Clippers. Nikola Jokić orchestrated the offense with his unique playmaking abilities, while Jamal Murray delivered key buckets. Their dominant 104-89 win not only showcased Denver’s emerging star power but also exposed the Clippers’ vulnerabilities.
5. 2022 Playoffs: Celtics vs. Bucks (Game 6)
Facing elimination, Jayson Tatum delivered one of the finest performances of his career, scoring 46 points to lead the Boston Celtics to a 108-95 victory. This heroic effort forced a Game 7, where the Celtics ultimately advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals. Tatum’s brilliance on this night announced his arrival as one of the league’s elite players.
6. 2018 Western Conference Finals: Warriors vs. Rockets (Game 7)
The Golden State Warriors overcame adversity and a 15-point halftime deficit to defeat the Houston Rockets 101-92. The Rockets’ infamous streak of 27 consecutive missed three-pointers was their undoing, while Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant stepped up with clutch performances. This game was a testament to Golden State’s championship pedigree.
7. 2023 Playoffs: Lakers vs. Grizzlies (Game 4)
LeBron James once again demonstrated his greatness, leading the Lakers to a thrilling overtime victory. With 22 points, 20 rebounds, and a clutch layup in regulation to tie the game, LeBron inspired the Lakers to a 117-111 win. This performance solidified his reputation as one of the greatest competitors in NBA history.
8. 2021 Playoffs: Nets vs. Bucks (Game 7)
This nail-biting duel featured Kevin Durant nearly leading the Brooklyn Nets to victory with a spectacular performance. His last-second shot sent the game to overtime, but the Bucks prevailed 115-111, thanks to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 40-point masterclass. This game cemented Milwaukee’s journey to the championship while ending Brooklyn’s superteam aspirations.
9. 2016 Western Conference Finals: Warriors vs. Thunder (Game 6)
Klay Thompson delivered one of the most iconic performances in playoff history, scoring 41 points and hitting 11 three-pointers in a must-win game for the Warriors. His heroics kept Golden State’s season alive, allowing them to overcome a 3-1 deficit and eventually reach the Finals.
10. 2019 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Raptors vs. 76ers (Game 7)
Kawhi Leonard etched his name in NBA history with a buzzer-beater that bounced on the rim four times before dropping in. This iconic shot gave the Raptors a 92-90 win over the 76ers and propelled Toronto to their first NBA championship. It remains one of the most memorable moments in playoff history.
Why These Best NBA Games Are Unforgettable
These matchups encapsulate what makes the NBA so special—clutch performances, intense rivalries, and historic milestones. They represent the essence of the best NBA games, showcasing how basketball is more than just a sport; it’s a stage where legends are born and memories are made.
Which matchup do you think stands out as the best NBA game? Share your thoughts and relive these incredible moments with us!
