Over the past decade, the NBA has witnessed some of the most thrilling and defining moments in basketball history. While watching live games is always an electrifying experience, taking a trip down memory lane allows us to relive the magic of iconic matchups that shaped the league. Here are some of the most significant games in NBA history that left an indelible mark on the sport.
Houston Rockets vs. Portland Trail Blazers – May 1, 2014
Lillard’s Iconic Buzzer-Beater
Some games are so captivating that they keep you glued to your seat from start to finish. The Game 6 showdown between the Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the 2014 playoffs was one of them.
With just 0.9 seconds left on the clock and Portland trailing by two, Damian Lillard refused to let the game slip away. Taking control of the final possession, he drilled a deep three-pointer at the buzzer, sending the Blazers to the second round and igniting a frenzy in the Moda Center. Lillard’s heroics instantly became one of the greatest playoff moments in NBA history.
📍 Portland, May 1, 2014 – Moda Center
🏀 Final Score: Trail Blazers 99, Rockets 98
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Toronto Raptors – March 20, 2014
Durant’s MVP Moment
This game was a showcase of Kevin Durant at his absolute best. With the Thunder trailing by eight in the final minutes, Durant put on a scoring clinic. He knocked down a crucial three-pointer to cut the deficit, followed by another deep shot from the left wing that put Oklahoma City ahead by one.
Durant’s clutch performance sealed the victory and further cemented his 2014 MVP campaign. His ability to take over in crunch time and elevate his team in high-pressure moments made this game an unforgettable masterpiece.
📍 Toronto, March 20, 2014 – Scotiabank Arena
🏀 Final Score: Thunder 119, Raptors 118 (OT)
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Golden State Warriors – June 19, 2016
The Block, The Shot, The Championship
This wasn’t just a game—it was a defining moment in NBA history. Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals featured an all-out war between the Cavaliers and the Warriors, marking the culmination of a historic 3-1 series comeback by Cleveland.
With the score tied at 89 in the final minutes, LeBron James delivered “The Block”, chasing down Andre Iguodala and swatting away what could have been a championship-winning layup for Golden State. Moments later, Kyrie Irving drained a clutch three-pointer over Stephen Curry, securing Cleveland’s first-ever NBA title. The Cavaliers held on for a 93-89 victory, forever etching this game into basketball folklore.
📍 Oakland, June 19, 2016 – Oracle Arena
🏀 Final Score: Cavaliers 93, Warriors 89
Memphis Grizzlies vs. San Antonio Spurs – December 17, 2014
Triple-Overtime Thriller
Few games test endurance and willpower like this one. In an epic regular-season showdown, the Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs battled through three overtimes, each team refusing to give in.
With the clock winding down, Marc Gasol launched a difficult shot that miraculously found its way in, pushing the game to its second overtime. Tim Duncan countered with a signature one-dribble fadeaway that danced around the rim before dropping through the net. The Grizzlies ultimately prevailed in a grueling contest that showcased resilience, determination, and sheer skill.
📍 San Antonio, December 17, 2014 – AT&T Center
🏀 Final Score: Grizzlies 117, Spurs 116 (3OT)
Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs – June 18, 2013
Ray Allen’s Miracle Three
Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals remains one of the most dramatic in league history. With the Spurs leading 3-2 in the series and up by three points with seconds left, Miami’s championship hopes were hanging by a thread.
Then came the shot. Off a Chris Bosh offensive rebound, Ray Allen backpedaled to the three-point line, caught the pass, and, in one fluid motion, released a perfect shot over Tony Parker’s outstretched hand. The ball swished through the net, forcing overtime and keeping the Heat’s title dreams alive. Miami went on to win the game and, eventually, the championship.
📍 Miami, June 18, 2013 – American Airlines Arena
🏀 Final Score: Heat 103, Spurs 100 (OT)
These games aren’t just about wins and losses—they are about defining moments, legendary performances, and unforgettable drama. They remind us why basketball is more than just a sport; it’s a showcase of passion, perseverance, and greatness.
