61.3%
Post-ups are a very effective way to score in the paint, as they allow the player with the ball to use their size and strength to their advantage. However, they can also be difficult to execute, as the player with the ball needs to be able to hold their ground against their opponent, and they need to be able to make a quick move to the basket.
Clutch Plays and Game-Winners
Clutch Plays
Clutch plays are those that are made in critical moments of a game, often with the outcome hanging in the balance. These plays can take many forms, such as a key defensive stop, a clutch rebound, or a game-tying shot. Clutch plays require a combination of skill, composure, and a strong competitive spirit. Some of the most iconic clutch plays in NBA history include Michael Jordan’s game-winning shot against the Utah Jazz in the 1998 NBA Finals, and Kawhi Leonard’s buzzer-beater to win Game 7 of the 2019 NBA Finals.
Game-Winners
Game-winners are a subset of clutch plays that are made in the final moments of a game to either tie or win the game. Game-winners are often the most memorable plays in NBA history, as they can have a dramatic impact on the outcome of a game or even a series. Some of the most famous game-winners in NBA history include Kobe Bryant’s game-winning shot against the Phoenix Suns in the 2006 Western Conference Finals, and Ray Allen’s game-tying three-pointer against the San Antonio Spurs in the 2013 NBA Finals.
Notable Game-Winners in NBA History
Player |
Team |
Opponent |
Year |
Michael Jordan |
Chicago Bulls |
Utah Jazz |
1998 |
Kobe Bryant |
Los Angeles Lakers |
Phoenix Suns |
2006 |
Ray Allen |
Miami Heat |
San Antonio Spurs |
2013 |
Kawhi Leonard |
Toronto Raptors |
Philadelphia 76ers |
2019 |
Kyrie Irving |
Cleveland Cavaliers |
Golden State Warriors |
2016 |
Defensive Masterclasses
When it comes to the National Basketball Association (NBA), defense is just as important as offense. In fact, some of the most thrilling plays in league history have come on the defensive end. Here are a few of the best:
The Block
One of the most iconic defensive plays is the block. This is when a player prevents an opponent from scoring by blocking their shot. Some of the most famous blocks in NBA history include:
- Gheorghe Muresan’s block on Hakeem Olajuwon in the 1995 NBA Finals
- Dikembe Mutombo’s block on Shawn Bradley in the 1997 NBA Playoffs
- LeBron James’ block on Andre Iguodala in the 2016 NBA Finals
The Steal
Another great defensive play is the steal. This is when a player takes the ball away from an opponent without fouling them. Some of the most famous steals in NBA history include:
- Magic Johnson’s steal and no-look pass to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 1987 NBA Finals
- Michael Jordan’s steal from Isiah Thomas in the 1991 NBA Finals
- Jason Kidd’s steal from Vince Carter in the 2002 NBA Playoffs
The Charge
The charge is a defensive play that is often overlooked, but it can be just as effective as a block or a steal. This is when a player takes a charge, meaning they stand in front of an opponent and absorb their contact while the opponent is dribbling the ball. Some of the most famous charges in NBA history include:
- Dennis Rodman’s charge on Hakeem Olajuwon in the 1995 NBA Finals
- Tim Duncan’s charge on LeBron James in the 2007 NBA Finals
- Draymond Green’s charge on Kevin Durant in the 2018 NBA Finals
The Defensive Masterclass
The defensive masterclass is a play that involves all five players on the court working together to stop the opponent from scoring. This can be achieved through a variety of strategies, such as double-teaming, trapping, and switching. Some of the most famous defensive masterclasses in NBA history include:
Team |
Opponent |
Year |
Detroit Pistons |
Los Angeles Lakers |
1989 |
Chicago Bulls |
Portland Trail Blazers |
1993 |
San Antonio Spurs |
Cleveland Cavaliers |
2007 |
Highlight-Reel Dunks
Nothing gets fans out of their seats quite like a highlight-reel dunk. These gravity-defying feats of athleticism are a staple of the NBA, and they often leave viewers in awe. From Vince Carter’s iconic elbow dunk over Frederic Weis to Zion Williamson’s posterizing dunk over Brandon Knight, the NBA has seen no shortage of memorable dunks throughout its history.
Blocks
On the defensive end, blocks are just as thrilling as dunks. When a player rises up and denies an opponent’s shot with authority, it’s an electrifying moment. Blocks require incredible timing, athleticism, and instincts, and they can be just as game-changing as a well-executed dunk.
Top 5 Highlight-Reel Dunks
5. LeBron James’ Dunk over Jason Terry (2010)
In the 2010 NBA Playoffs, LeBron James displayed his raw power with a thunderous dunk over Jason Terry. James drove hard to the basket and, with Terry attempting to block him, leaped over his outstretched arm and threw down a one-handed dunk that sent the crowd into a frenzy. This dunk became a symbol of James’ dominance and his ability to rise above any challenge.
Rank |
Player |
Dunk |
Year |
1 |
Vince Carter |
Elbow Dunk over Weis |
2000 |
2 |
Zion Williamson |
Posterizing Dunk over Knight |
2019 |
3 |
Michael Jordan |
Free Throw Line Dunk |
1988 |
4 |
Julius Erving |
Baseline Reversed Dunk |
1976 |
5 |
Lebron James |
Dunk over Terry |
2010 |
Team Chemistry and Playmaking
Team chemistry is a vital ingredient for any successful NBA team. When players are comfortable with each other on and off the court, it shows in their play. They are more likely to make the extra pass, defend for each other, and trust each other’s decisions. Good team chemistry can also help a team overcome adversity and achieve success even when they are not the most talented team on the court.
Playmaking is the ability to create scoring opportunities for yourself and your teammates. Good playmakers have a high basketball IQ and can see the court well. They are able to make quick decisions and anticipate the movements of their opponents. They are also skilled at passing and dribbling.
Types of Plays
There are many different types of plays that NBA teams can run. Some of the most common include:
- Pick-and-rolls: A pick-and-roll is a play in which a player sets a screen for a teammate who is then able to roll to the basket or pop out for a shot.
- Dribble hand-offs: A dribble hand-off is a play in which a player dribbles the ball to a teammate and then quickly hands it off to them.
- Hit the post: A hit the post is a play in which a player posts up on the block and receives the ball from a teammate.
- Isolations: An isolation is a play in which a player takes on a defender one-on-one.
- Screens: A screen is a play in which a player sets a physical block for a teammate to get open.
- Fast breaks: A fast break is a play in which a team gets a rebound and quickly moves the ball up the court to score before the defense can set up.
Play |
Description |
Pick-and-roll |
A player sets a screen for a teammate who is then able to roll to the basket or pop out for a shot. |
Dribble hand-offs |
A player dribbles the ball to a teammate and then quickly hands it off to them. |
Hit the post |
A player posts up on the block and receives the ball from a teammate. |
Isolations |
A player takes on a defender one-on-one. |
Screens |
A player sets a physical block for a teammate to get open. |
Fast breaks |
A team gets a rebound and quickly moves the ball up the court to score before the defense can set up. |
Rising Stars
The NBA Rising Stars game showcases the league’s brightest young talents. This year’s edition featured a plethora of impressive performances, with several players announcing their arrival on the scene.
- Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers: The sophomore guard put on a dazzling display, leading all scorers with 22 points and adding 7 assists.
- Jalen Green, Houston Rockets: The No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 draft showed his explosive athleticism, scoring 21 points and showcasing his electrifying dunks.
- Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic: The No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft showcased his versatility, scoring 18 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 4 assists.
Breakout Performances
Several players took advantage of the NBA Rising Stars game to elevate their profiles with breakout performances.
- Franz Wagner, Orlando Magic: The German wingman impressed with his all-around game, scoring 18 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists.
- Josh Giddey, Oklahoma City Thunder: The Australian guard continued his impressive rookie campaign, recording 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists.
- Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves: The second-year guard showed off his dynamic scoring ability, pouring in 19 points on efficient shooting.
Player |
PTS |
REB |
AST |
Tyrese Haliburton |
22 |
5 |
7 |
Jalen Green |
21 |
6 |
4 |
Paolo Banchero |
18 |
10 |
4 |
Franz Wagner |
18 |
7 |
5 |
Josh Giddey |
16 |
10 |
5 |
Anthony Edwards |
19 |
4 |
3 |
Iconic Rivalry Moments
The Battle of the Bay
The rivalry between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers is one of the most iconic in NBA history. The two teams have met in the playoffs numerous times, with the Lakers holding a 16-13 advantage. One of the most memorable moments in the rivalry came in Game 7 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals. With the game tied at 107 with under a minute to play, Warriors star Stephen Curry hit a 3-pointer to give Golden State the lead. The Lakers had a chance to tie the game at the free throw line, but they missed both attempts, and the Warriors won the series.
The Bird-Magic Rivalry
The rivalry between Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics and Magic Johnson of the Los Angeles Lakers is another one of the most iconic in NBA history. The two players faced off in the NBA Finals three times in the 1980s, with the Celtics winning twice and the Lakers winning once. One of the most memorable moments in the rivalry came in Game 5 of the 1987 NBA Finals. With the Lakers trailing by one point with under 10 seconds to play, Johnson hit a no-look pass to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the game-winning dunk.
The 2013 Eastern Conference Finals
The rivalry between the Miami Heat and the Indiana Pacers was at its peak in 2013. The two teams met in the Eastern Conference Finals, with the Heat winning in seven games. One of the most memorable moments in the series came in Game 6. With the Heat trailing by three points with under a minute to play, LeBron James hit a game-tying 3-pointer. The Pacers had a chance to win the game at the free throw line, but they missed both attempts, and the Heat went on to win the game in overtime.
The 2016 Finals
The 2016 NBA Finals was one of the most memorable in recent history. The Cleveland Cavaliers faced off against the Golden State Warriors, with the Warriors winning in seven games. One of the most memorable moments in the series came in Game 7. With the Cavaliers trailing by three points with under two minutes to play, Kyrie Irving hit a game-tying 3-pointer. The Warriors had a chance to win the game at the free throw line, but they missed both attempts, and the Cavaliers went on to win the game in overtime.
The 2018 Western Conference Finals
The rivalry between the Houston Rockets and the Golden State Warriors was at its peak in 2018. The two teams met in the Western Conference Finals, with the Warriors winning in seven games. One of the most memorable moments in the series came in Game 7. With the Rockets trailing by three points with under a minute to play, James Harden hit a game-tying 3-pointer. The Warriors had a chance to win the game at the free throw line, but they missed both attempts, and the Rockets went on to win the game in overtime.
Historic Finals Performances
9. LeBron James’ Game 6 Masterclass in 2012
In a stunning display of dominance, LeBron James led the Miami Heat to their first NBA championship in Game 6 of the 2012 Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. James erupted for 45 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists, shooting an incredible 19-of-26 from the field. His relentless attacks on the rim and clutch shooting in the fourth quarter carried the Heat to victory, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest Finals performers of all time.
James scored 18 points in the third quarter, including a series of highlight-reel dunks, to swing the momentum in Miami’s favor. In the fourth quarter, he hit several crucial shots, including a game-tying three-pointer with just 15.8 seconds remaining. With the Thunder leading 95-94, James stripped Kevin Durant in the final seconds and stormed down the court for a game-winning layup.
The Heat went on to win Game 7 in Oklahoma City, completing their improbable comeback from a 1-3 deficit. James’ Game 6 performance was hailed as one of the most dominant Finals performances in NBA history, earning him his first Finals MVP award.
Unforgettable Legacy Moments
Moment #1: Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game”
In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan battled through dehydration and nausea to lead the Chicago Bulls to an iconic victory over the Utah Jazz. Despite scoring 38 points, Jordan was visibly exhausted and collapsed on the bench after the game. This moment became known as the “Flu Game” and cemented Jordan’s legacy as a relentless competitor.
Moment #2: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Record-Breaking Skyhook
On April 5, 1984, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar surpassed Wilt Chamberlain as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. His signature skyhook shot became synonymous with his greatness, and the moment remains etched in NBA history.
Moment #3: Magic Johnson’s No-Look Pass
Known for his incredible court vision, Magic Johnson made an unforgettable no-look pass to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in Game 5 of the 1987 NBA Finals. The pass was so unexpected that it left the Boston Celtics’ defense stunned and helped the Lakers secure the championship.
Moment #4: Bill Russell’s Record 11 NBA Championships
Bill Russell led the Boston Celtics to an unprecedented 11 NBA championships as a player-coach. His leadership and defensive prowess made him one of the most dominant figures in NBA history.
Moment #5: Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-Point Game
On March 2, 1962, Wilt Chamberlain scored an astonishing 100 points for the Philadelphia Warriors against the New York Knicks. This remains the single-game scoring record in NBA history and stands as a testament to Chamberlain’s unparalleled athleticism.
Moment #6: LeBron James’ Block on Andre Iguodala
In Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, LeBron James made an iconic chase-down block on Andre Iguodala to preserve the Cleveland Cavaliers’ victory. This moment epitomized James’s incredible athleticism and helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.
Moment #7: Stephen Curry’s Record-Breaking 402 Three-Pointers
In the 2015-16 season, Stephen Curry broke the NBA record for most three-pointers made in a single season with 402. His sharpshooting revolutionized the game and cemented his status as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
Moment #8: Tim Duncan’s Twin Towers Dominance
Tim Duncan formed an unstoppable duo with David Robinson in the San Antonio Spurs’ “Twin Towers” era. Together, they led the Spurs to four NBA championships and solidified their legacy as one of the most dominant inside forces in league history.
Moment #9: Shaquille O’Neal’s Back-to-Back Championships
Shaquille O’Neal led the Los Angeles Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. His incredible size and strength made him an unstoppable force in the paint and earned him the nickname “Diesel.”
Moment #10: Kobe Bryant’s 81-Point Performance
On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant scored an astonishing 81 points for the Los Angeles Lakers against the Toronto Raptors. This became the second-highest single-game scoring performance in NBA history and showcased Bryant’s incredible scoring prowess. He is the only player to score more than 80 points in the last 50 years.
Rank |
Player |
Date |
Highlight |
1 |
Kobe Bryant |
January 22, 2006 |
81-point performance |
2 |
Wilt Chamberlain |
March 2, 1962 |
100-point game |
3 |
Stephen Curry |
2015-16 season |
402 three-pointers made |
Best Plays of the NBA
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is known for its fast-paced, high-scoring action, and some of the most memorable moments in NBA history are the incredible plays that make headlines. From gravity-defying dunks to clutch shots, these plays showcase the athleticism and skill of the game’s best players.
One of the most iconic plays in NBA history is Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game.” In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Jordan played despite suffering from food poisoning. He scored 38 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter, to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 90-88 victory over the Utah Jazz. Another unforgettable play is LeBron James’s “The Block” in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals. With the Cleveland Cavaliers trailing the Golden State Warriors by one point in the final seconds, James blocked a potential game-tying three-pointer by Andre Iguodala, securing the championship for the Cavaliers.
The NBA is full of players who are capable of making highlight-reel plays, and fans are always eager to see what they will do next. These plays are a testament to the skill and athleticism of the players and the excitement that the NBA provides.
People Also Ask
What are the most common plays in the NBA?
Some of the most common plays in the NBA include the pick-and-roll, the isolation, and the fast break.
What are the most difficult plays to execute in the NBA?
Some of the most difficult plays to execute in the NBA include the alley-oop, the behind-the-back pass, and the no-look pass.
What are the most spectacular plays to watch in the NBA?
Some of the most spectacular plays to watch in the NBA include the dunk, the block, and the buzzer-beater.
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