The NBA Finals, the climax of the basketball season, have historically showcased intense and competitive series. However, on ten occasions, one team has managed to dominate so thoroughly that the series ended in a sweep. Here’s a detailed look at these rare instances of NBA Finals sweeps.
1. 1959: Boston Celtics vs. Minneapolis Lakers
The Boston Celtics inaugurated their era of dominance with a sweep of the Minneapolis Lakers. This series marked the beginning of a dynasty that would see the Celtics win eight consecutive championships. Key players like Bill Russell and Bob Cousy led the charge, with Russell averaging an astonishing 29.5 rebounds per game during the series.
2. 1971: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Baltimore Bullets
With the dynamic duo of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (then Lew Alcindor) and Oscar Robertson, the Milwaukee Bucks claimed their first NBA title by sweeping the Baltimore Bullets. This team, combining youthful talent and veteran experience, set a high standard for future champions.
3. 1975: Golden State Warriors vs. Washington Bullets
In a surprising upset, the Golden State Warriors, led by Rick Barry, swept the heavily favored Washington Bullets. This series included two games decided by just one point, highlighting the Warriors’ clutch performance under pressure.
4. 1983: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The Philadelphia 76ers, featuring Moses Malone, Julius Erving, and Andrew Toney, dominated the Los Angeles Lakers. Malone’s famous “Fo’, Fo’, Fo’” prediction almost came true, as the 76ers lost only one game throughout the playoffs.
5. 1989: Detroit Pistons vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The “Bad Boys” of Detroit, known for their physical and aggressive play, swept the Lakers in 1989. Injuries to key Lakers players like Magic Johnson hampered their efforts, allowing the Pistons to secure their first NBA title.
6. 1995: Houston Rockets vs. Orlando Magic
In a battle of big men, Hakeem Olajuwon outplayed a young Shaquille O’Neal, leading the Houston Rockets to a sweep over the Orlando Magic. Olajuwon’s performance earned him the Finals MVP as he scored over 30 points in each game.
7. 1999: San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks
During a lockout-shortened season, the San Antonio Spurs, led by Tim Duncan and David Robinson, swept the New York Knicks. This victory marked the beginning of the Spurs’ era of success under coach Gregg Popovich.
8. 2002: Los Angeles Lakers vs. New Jersey Nets
The powerful combination of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant was too much for the New Jersey Nets to handle in 2002. This sweep gave the Lakers their third consecutive championship, cementing their legacy in NBA history.
9. 2007: San Antonio Spurs vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
LeBron James made his first NBA Finals appearance in 2007, but his Cleveland Cavaliers were no match for the seasoned San Antonio Spurs. The trio of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili led the Spurs to a decisive sweep.
10. 2018: Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
In their fourth consecutive Finals matchup, the Golden State Warriors, bolstered by the addition of Kevin Durant, swept the Cleveland Cavaliers. This series highlighted the Warriors’ dominance during this era and marked LeBron James’ final game with the Cavaliers before joining the Los Angeles Lakers.
Conclusion
While sweeps in the NBA Finals are rare, they are a testament to the dominance and excellence of the winning teams. These ten instances highlight some of the greatest teams and players in NBA history, showcasing moments where preparation, skill, and sometimes a bit of luck, culminated in a perfect series.