Do you know who grabbed the NBA Championship in 1947? It all started with the Philadelphia Warriors claiming the first title. They had an unstoppable run, leading with Joe Fulks who was averaging 23.2 points per game. That may not sound like a lot compared to today’s standards, but back then, scoring over 20 points a game was considered extraordinary. Fun fact: Joe Fulks used a jump shot, which was quite novel for the time.
Moving through the early ’50s, the Minneapolis Lakers dominated the scene. George Mikan, the star center who was 6’10”, was practically a giant at the time. From 1949 to 1954, the Lakers claimed five championships. Imagine winning five times in seven years! This is the era that truly started the Lakers’ dynasty.
Everyone talks about the Boston Celtics in the ’60s. They won a staggering 11 championships in 13 years. Bill Russell’s defensive prowess, clocking in at an incredible 22.5 rebounds per game, was a significant factor. The team’s chemistry was unmatched, boasting players like Bob Cousy and John Havlicek. A lot of people wonder, “How did they maintain such a dominant streak?” Well, their strategy included rigorous conditioning, smart defensive plays, and the leadership of coach Red Auerbach.
When Kareem Abdul-Jabbar made his move to the Lakers in 1975, the team saw instant results. With his patented skyhook shot, Kareem led the Lakers to an impressive championship win in 1980. But it was the arrival of Magic Johnson that truly changed the Lakers’ game. Magic, known for his incredible versatility, could play almost any position on the floor. The ‘Showtime’ Lakers won five championships in the ’80s, solidifying Magic Johnson’s status as one of the game’s greats.
And then there’s Michael Jordan, who led the Chicago Bulls to six championships in the 1990s. Jordan’s scoring prowess, exemplified by his 30.1 points per game career average, was unparalleled. Paired with Scottie Pippen and later Dennis Rodman, the Bulls became nearly invincible. Remember the “Flu Game” in 1997? Jordan scored 38 points against the Utah Jazz despite being visibly sick, showcasing his tenacity and skill.
Skipping forward to the 2000s, the tandem of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal for the Lakers gained fame. They snagged three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. Shaq’s dominant presence in the paint, combined with Kobe’s scoring ability, made them an unbeatable force. During this period, Shaq averaged 30 points and 15 rebounds per game in the Finals. Kobe, just a young superstar then, showed glimpses of his future greatness.
More recently, the Golden State Warriors have taken the spotlight. From 2015 to 2018, they won three championships. Thanks to the Splash Brothers, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, along with the addition of Kevin Durant in 2017, the Warriors set new records, including a staggering 73-win regular season in 2016. Curry’s unprecedented shooting range revolutionized the game, making watching their games a unique experience. Did you know Curry broke the single-season three-point record with 402 threes in 2016?
In 2020, the Lakers brought back glory to Los Angeles with LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the charge. This season was unlike any other due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with games being played in a “bubble.” Still, LeBron managed to lead with a near triple-double average in the Finals, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest of all time. People often ask, what’s the hallmark of LeBron’s greatness? Well, besides his scoring, it’s his playmaking skills. He’s led the league in assists during the 2019-2020 season, demonstrating his all-around effectiveness.
In 2021, the Milwaukee Bucks emerged victorious, winning their first championship since 1971. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance was nothing short of legendary, scoring 50 points in the decisive Game 6 against the Phoenix Suns. This was certainly a momentous occasion, considering the Bucks’ long championship drought. A lot of fans were shocked when Giannis inked a five-year, $228 million supermax extension the previous year, but boy, did he prove his worth!
Curious about more details? Check out the complete list of NBA Champions year by year on nba champions year by year. Seriously, each of these seasons and champions has contributed to the rich history of the NBA in its own way. From the dominant dynasties to the underdog victories, the journey through the years showcases the evolution of the game.