One of the most exhilarating moments in the world of sports is the anticipation surrounding a Game 7 in a championship series, a rare and thrilling occasion that captures the hearts of fans. This year, the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder are set to clash in a pivotal Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. This highly anticipated matchup marks the 20th Game 7 in the history of the league, making it a significant event as it is the first addition to this exclusive category since 2016. As we gear up for this thrilling finale, let's take a closer look at the historic Game 7s in NBA Finals throughout the years.
2016: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Golden State Warriors
In a memorable showdown, the Cleveland Cavaliers triumphed over the Golden State Warriors with a score of 93-89. LeBron James, who was named Finals MVP, delivered a stellar performance, tallying 27 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists, and 3 blocks. This victory was monumental as the Cavaliers became the first team in NBA history to win a Finals series after being down three games to one. In a losing effort, Draymond Green contributed 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 9 assists.
2013: Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs
The Miami Heat secured their championship by defeating the San Antonio Spurs 95-88 in another thrilling Game 7. LeBron James once again showcased his excellence, finishing with 37 points and 12 rebounds. Dwyane Wade also played a crucial role, contributing 23 points and 10 rebounds to the Heat's victory.
2010: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics
In a classic rivalry, the Los Angeles Lakers edged out the Boston Celtics 83-79. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Pau Gasol added 19 points and 15 rebounds, culminating in a hard-fought Game 7 victory.
2005: San Antonio Spurs vs. Detroit Pistons
The San Antonio Spurs claimed the championship by defeating the Detroit Pistons 81-74. Tim Duncan, named Finals MVP, scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, while Manu Ginobili's 11 points in the fourth quarter proved pivotal for the Spurs.
1994: Houston Rockets vs. New York Knicks
The Houston Rockets clinched their first NBA championship by overcoming the New York Knicks 90-84. Hakeem Olajuwon starred with 25 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 blocks.
1988: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Detroit Pistons
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Detroit Pistons 108-105, thanks to a remarkable performance by James Worthy, who recorded a triple-double with 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists.
1984: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The Boston Celtics emerged victorious against the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 111-102. Larry Bird helped secure the title with 20 points and 12 rebounds.
1978: Washington Bullets vs. Seattle Supersonics
The Washington Bullets triumphed over the Seattle Supersonics 105-99, with Wes Unseld earning Finals MVP honors despite averaging less than 10 points per game in the series.
1974: Boston Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks
The Boston Celtics defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 102-87, marking the first championship for the Celtics without the iconic Bill Russell.
1970: New York Knicks vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The New York Knicks overcame the Los Angeles Lakers 113-99 in a Game 7 that saw Willis Reed inspire his team with two early baskets despite a serious injury.
1969: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The Boston Celtics won 108-106 against the Los Angeles Lakers, with Jerry West becoming the first player to earn Finals MVP honors on a losing team.
1966: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The Boston Celtics secured a 95-93 victory, marking Red Auerbach's last game as head coach.
1962: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
In another intense showdown, the Celtics defeated the Lakers 110-107, with Bill Russell dominating with 35 points and 40 rebounds.
1960: Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks
The Celtics won 122-103, with Bill Russell contributing 22 points and 35 rebounds.
1957: Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks
In a thrilling double-overtime victory, the Celtics defeated the Hawks 125-123, marking Red Auerbach's first championship as head coach.
1955: Syracuse Nationals vs. Fort Wayne Pistons
The Syracuse Nationals clinched victory with a narrow 92-91 win, led by George King's game-winning free throw.
1954: Minneapolis Lakers vs. Syracuse Nationals
The Lakers won 87-80, with Jim Pollard leading the scoring.
1952: Minneapolis Lakers vs. New York Knicks
The Lakers triumphed 82-65, thanks to George Mikan's 22 points and 19 rebounds.
1951: Rochester Royals vs. New York Knicks
The Rochester Royals secured a 79-75 victory, led by Arnie Risen's 24 points and 13 rebounds.
As we await the outcome of the upcoming Game 7 in the 2025 NBA Finals, basketball fans around the world will undoubtedly be on the edge of their seats, eager to witness which team will emerge victorious in this historic showdown.
