“Like a man playing against kindergarten people. That’s how advanced he was. He was versatile. But he was a ferocious defender. That’s all he did. He wanted to compete. He was unbelievably skilled — his work ethic second to none. He wasn’t afraid of anything, and it was genuine. It’s not verbiage,” Jerry West said, via Podcast P with Paul George.

Due to his unwavering Mamba Mentality, many remember Kobe Bryant for both his relentless work ethic and his status as one of the most talented players in NBA history. He averaged over 22 points per game for 14 consecutive years and led the league in scoring twice. Moreover, his abilities extended beyond scoring as he also excelled in playmaking, consistently creating opportunities for teammates like Shaquille O’Neal, who thrived thanks to Kobe’s skills.

Kobe Bryant’s raw talent did not go unnoticed by Gregg Popovich, who was quick to point out that the Lakers legend was not just a great player. “One of the greatest players of all time. It’s not just his talent or his physical skills. His mind was on a par with Michael [Jordan] and Larry (Bird) and Magic (Johnson), guys like that. They thought the game, they knew what was going on,” he said in 2017, via Los Angeles Times.

Not only Gregg, but also NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady decided to praise him, making a strong statement. “The most skilled basketball player I’ve ever seen is Kobe Bean Bryant, Kobe took who MJ was but enhanced the skillset, had a better handle. MJ didn’t shoot 3s like that so Kobe took it upon and added the 3-ball to his game because that’s where the game evolved too. But skill-wise? The moves, the footwork—he had it all,” he said in 2024, via Club Shay Shay.

Kobe Bryant’s recent wave of praise underscores a vital truth: his talent was more remarkable than many acknowledge. Though he does not top NBA historic scoring charts or MVP counts, his innate skills drove the Lakers to multiple championships. Nonetheless, his relentless work ethic often leads some to downplay his natural gifts compared to Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, or Larry Bird.

Every June, the NBA Finals MVP award crowns the most outstanding player of the postseason’s grandest stage. Since 1969, legends have carved their names into history, forever linked to championship glory or in heartbreaking defeat.

From Michael Jordan’s unmatched dominance to surprise heroes who seized the moment, the trophy has come to symbolize basketball immortality. Behind every winner lies a story of brilliance, grit and unforgettable performances.

Yet, the award’s past holds more than just triumph. Among the records and repeat honorees, one name stands alone as the only player to capture the MVP despite watching the title slip away.

Was there ever NBA Finals MVP from a losing team?

Only one player has ever claimed the MVP award without hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy and that is Jerry West. In 1969, the inaugural year of the Finals MVP, he averaged an astonishing 37.9 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game against the Boston Celtics.

Despite his heroics, the Lakers fell short in a Game 7 heartbreaker. His performance was so extraordinary that voters couldn’t ignore it, making him the only player ever to win the award from the losing side.

It’s a record that has stood untouched for over five decades, highlighting not just individual brilliance, but the bittersweet nature of sport itself, according to Basketball Reference and the Finals MVP history.

Who is the player with most MVPs awards?

When it comes to Finals MVPs, no one comes close to Michael Jordan. With six trophies to his name—all from the Chicago Bulls’ six championships in the 1990s—he set a standard of dominance that remains unmatched.

His ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage, averaging 33.6 points across Finals appearances, solidified his reputation as the ultimate closer, according to sources like ESPN.

Other greats like LeBron James (4), Magic Johnson (3) and Tim Duncan (3) trail him, but his perfect Finals MVP streak is still the gold standard. His six awards are a reminder of an era when the Bulls reigned supreme.

Which team has the most MVPs?

It’s no surprise that the teams with the most championships also rack up the most Finals MVPs. Leading the pack are the Los Angeles Lakers with 15 Finals MVP awards, followed closely by the Chicago Bulls with 6—all won by Michael Jordan.

The Lakers’ total is spread across legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. That breadth speaks to the franchise’s ability to reinvent itself across generations.

Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs and Boston Celtics also sit among the top franchises, showing that consistent success often goes hand-in-hand with iconic individual performances and a rich tradition of winners.

How many rookies have won the MVP award?

Winning the Finals MVP as a rookie is one of the rarest achievements in NBA history. Only one player has ever done it: Magic Johnson. His performance for the Lakers in the 1980 Finals remains legendary.

At just 20 years old, he famously started at center in Game 6 after Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s injury and delivered a 42-point, 15-rebound, 7-assist masterpiece to clinch the title.

During a 2022 appearance on Terrell Owens’ podcast Getcha Popcorn Ready, West weighed in on the GOAT debate between Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. “The thing I like about Michael Jordan is he never changes,” West said.

He added, “This guy has done more spectacular things than any other basketball player I’ve ever seen,” praising Jordan’s two-way dominance. Jordan’s accolades—10 scoring titles, three steals titles, a Defensive Player of the Year award, and nine All-Defensive selections—only bolstered West’s opinion.

In a video shared by the NBA’s official account, West reaffirmed his admiration for the Chicago Bulls legend: “Michael Jordan is an incredible player. I’ve known a lot of incredible players, and frankly been involved with many, but to me, he epitomizes everything I value in a basketball player—someone who dominates both ends of the court. His team wins, and in the fourth quarter, he’s always there. I love Michael like a brother, and he’s never changed. That’s what I admire most.”

Jerry West’s journey: from hardwood hero to front office legend

Jerry West began his iconic NBA career as the No. 2 overall pick in the 1960 draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. With a lethal jump shot and unmatched poise in clutch moments, West quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier guards. He made 10 NBA Finals appearances, earning his lone championship in 1972. A 14-time All-Star, West’s competitive fire made him a cornerstone of the Lakers franchise for over a decade.

West averaged 27 points per game across his career and remains the only player to win NBA Finals MVP while playing on the losing team (1969). His silhouette became the basis for the NBA’s logo, cementing his legacy as “The Logo.” On the court, he was fiery and focused; off it, he was calm and respected. West retired in 1974 but remained deeply embedded in the game.

Jerry executive era

Transitioning into the executive ranks, West built multiple dynasties. As general manager of the Lakers, he constructed the Showtime era with Magic Johnson and later brought in Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, forming the foundation for their early-2000s dominance. His brilliance extended to roles with the Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors, where his eye for talent helped guide each NBA franchise to success. His impact behind the scenes was as powerful as his playing days.

Jerry West’s influence transcended generations—as a player, executive, and ambassador for the sport. A two-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (as a player and contributor), he was revered for his basketball IQ, competitive spirit, and unwavering integrity. Even into his final years, he remained a guiding voice in the NBA community. His passing marks the end of an era—but his legacy will echo in every corner of the basketball world.

Of course, the San Antonio Spurs hope that first-overall pick Victor Wembanyama will join that list once it’s all said and done. But he’s just walking his first steps in the league.

However, even if he has yet to make his professional debut, Los Angeles Lakers legend Jerry West believes that the French star has a similar game to Bill Russell, which is a lot to say.

Jerry West Compares Victor Wembanyama To Bill Russell

“You rarely see someone that combines his brain and his ability,” West started. “Just watching him play, it’s an easy game for him to play, very easy and it never looks like he is working. If you watch really great players, it never looks like they’re working hard.”

“When you watch him defensively, he ruins games. He reminds me a little bit of a bigger Bill Russell with a big reach, coming from everywhere— any offensive player is gonna have to be really cautious about where he is because he’s gonna mess up some offenses that’s for sure,” West concluded.

Well, if Wemby is able to win just one third of the championships Russell won, then he’ll already have a better career than most of his colleagues. Hopefully, he’ll stay healthy and live up to that unimaginable potential.

One of the most popular debates in the NBA world is whether LeBron James or Michael Jordan is the greatest of all times (GOAT). While many believe no one will ever surpass the Chicago Bulls icon, others claim the Los Angeles Lakers star already did.

But of course, answering this question is never an easy task. We’re talking about different eras and different players, who played for different teams. After all, everyone will have their own opinion on who they liked the most.

That’s why Jerry West doesn’t even want to talk about it. ‘Mr. Clutch’ believes comparing two great basketball players such as LeBron and MJ is a waste of time, when we should praise both of them.

Jerry West says it’s ridiculous to compare LeBron and MJ

“Guys, this is the most ridiculous conversation you’ll ever have,” West said in an appearance on Podcast P with Paul George presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment, as quoted by ClutchPoints. “…There’s different eras, different changes. Athletes today, their athletic ability should be better. They should be better shooters.

“… But face it, they’re copycats. You put the other guy who got the same kind of skill, he’ll look like he’s trying to mimic the great guy. I don’t buy into this goat stuff. My god. There’s a lot of smelly goats around, I know that.”

West has seen both of them, just like he’s seen many other legendary players. Therefore, if he says this is a pointless debate, maybe he’s right.

But this team has made great strides over the past decade or so. They’ve become perennial contenders, and Steve Ballmer has gone the extra mile to try and get them over the hump.

However, this team can never seem to catch a break, as it showed with Kawhi Leonard’s injury in the playoffs. That’s why Jerry West — who’s worked there as a consultant since 2017 — can’t help but think they’re just jinxed.

Jerry West Blames God For The Clippers’ Shortcomings

“We’ve had two chances here with the Clippers, two chances,” West told Paul George on Podcast P. “And for whatever reason, the big guy in the sky didn’t want us to get there.”

“Injuries. I’ve never seen anything like this in my life,” continued West. “In my whole life, two players of the caliber of you and Kawhi can’t play half the season. I mean, it’s crazy. You look at Kawhi’s body, I mean, how can he ever get hurt? I feel so badly for him. It drives me crazy. He didn’t have a chance, and he works his fanny off. (…) You go home, and you say to yourself, ‘My gosh, it’s almost like there’s a jinx somewhere’.”

Truth be told, it’s hard to find another explanation. It happened during the Lob City era, and it’s happening all over again this time. Will they ever get rid of this bad mojo?

The Los Angeles Lakers will be forever grateful to West for everything he did during his executive career with the team, especially the ‘recruiting’ of two players who were key to the franchise, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal.

During his executive career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Jerry West won eight NBA Championship rings (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000, 2015, 2017) and was named NBA Executive of the Year twice (1995, 2004). .

Who is the best NBA player of all-time according to Jerry West?

During an event with the league, a reporter asked Jerry West who was the best NBA player of all-time to which West said: “…To me he epitomizes what I think is great in a basketball player. Someone who can play both ends of the court. His teams wins. In the last quarter, he’s going to be there…” Jerry West referring to Michael Jordan as the best of all-time.

Jerry West is currently an executive board member of the Los Angeles Clippers since 2017, before that job he had the same role but for the Golden State Warriors thus winning his 8th NBA Championship as executive.

Watch the video here: http://streamable.com/13koky

Being named Finals MVP is one of the biggest honors any basketball player could ever dream of. It means you outplayed all your opposition and put your team on your back when it mattered the most.

But there have been a couple of times in history that we’ve seen some head-scratching winners for this prestigious award. That’s why today, we’re going to let you know about the three worst NBA Finals MVPs of all time.

The Worst NBA Finals MVPs Ever

3. Jerry West – 1969

To be fair, Jerry West’s numbers in the 1969 NBA Finals were impressive even by his standards. He averaged 37.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 43.9 minutes per game. However, that wasn’t enough to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to the championship.

West and the Lakers lost in seven games to the Boston Celtics, becoming the first and only Finals MVP on a losing team. It was quite unfair to John Havlicek, who averaged 28.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game and actually won the chip.

2. Kawhi Leonard – 2014

Kawhi Leonard was anunknown player back in 2014. He took his game up a notch in the playoffs and especially in the NBA Finals, where he was in charge of guarding LeBron James. He averaged 17.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.2 blocks.

Leonard didn’t lead the San Antonio Spurs in any category but blocks in that series, yet he won Finals MVP for his great defense on James. The catch? LeBron actually averaged 28.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists on 57/51/79, so it’s not like he locked him up at all.

1. Andre Iguodala – 2015

For years, people have criticized Stephen Curry for ‘letting’ Andre Iguodala win Finals MVP over him in 2015. Iguodala averaged 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per game and was also called to guard LeBron James in that series.

Somehow, someway, and despite not leading his team in any regular or advanced stat, Iguodala’s ‘lockdown defense’ on James granted him the award. But James averaged 35.8 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game so… make this make sense, please.

And, while ratings have been there and some exaggeration was to be expected, it seems like those who were actually there in real-life haven’t been much of a fan. In fact, Magic Johnson even said that he wasn’t looking forward to watching it at all.

Now, Lakers legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Jerry West—both depicted in the TV show— have spoken up and expressed their criticism, ripping ‘Winning Time’ for its ‘bland characterization’ and inaccurate story-telling.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Rips HBO’s ‘Winning Time’

“I’ll start with the bland characterization. The characters are crude stick-figure representations that resemble real people the way Lego Hans Solo resembles Harrison Ford.Each character is reduced to a single bold trait as if the writers were afraid anything more complex would tax the viewers’ comprehension,” Kareem wrote on his Substack.

The legendary big man went on to state that the show features ‘caricatures, not characters’ and ‘amusement park portraits’ when describing him, Jerry West, Magic Johnson, and late Lakers owner Jerry Buss:

“Jerry Buss is Egomaniac Entrepreneur, Jerry West is Crazed Coach, Magic Johnson is Sexual Simpleton, I’m Pompous Prick. They are caricatures, not characters,” Kareem added.“Amusement park portraits that emphasize one physical feature to amplify your appearance—but never touching the essence. “

“The result of using caricatures instead of fully developed characters is that the plot becomes frenetic melodrama, sensationalized invented moments to excite the senses but reveal nothing deeper,” he concluded. “It’s as if he strung together a bunch of flashing colored lights and told us, ‘This is the spirit of Christmas.'”

Jerry West Demands An Apology

Needless to say, Mr. Clutch himself wasn’t a fan of how he was portrayed in the show, either. According to Ramona Shelbourne of ESPN, West’slawyers have even demanded a retraction and apology from the show:

“Former Los Angeles Lakers executive Jerry West demanded a retraction and an apology for what he called ‘a baseless and malicious assault’ on his character in the HBO series ‘Winning Time,’ in a letter sent Tuesday evening by his legal team to the network and producer Adam McKay, which was obtained by ESPN,” reported Shelbourne.

It’s one thing to spice things up to draw more viewership, it even makes sense. But why would you alter the story that much, especially when the people you talk about are alive and well and can fact-check everything?

Nonetheless, as entertaining as the show may seem, Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar stated that they weren’t looking forward to it, leading some people to think that it may not be exactly accurate.

That seems to be the case early on its debut season, as NBA insider Marc Stein recently pointed out that its portrayal of Lakers legend Jerry West, his temper, and some of the anecdotes aren’texactly true.

Marc Stein Rips HBO’s ‘Winning Time’ Over Portrayal Of Jerry West

(Transcript via Marc Stein)

“Jerry West’s old office at The Fabulous Forum did not have windows to hurl objects through in anger. None of the Forum’s basketball offices did.

West also, to my knowledge, did not keep his 1969 NBA Finals MVP trophy in that office. That scene Sunday night when he supposedly chucked it through glass in frustration because the Los Angeles Lakers drafted Magic Johnson over Sidney Moncrief? Total fabrication.

I’m likewise told West never played golf in a foursome with eventual Lakers owner Jerry Buss and then-Lakers general manager Bill Sharman. Even if he had, I’m quite confident that West — ever the gentleman in public — never would have broken a golf club over his knee or storm away from a putt to engage in a curse-filled shouting match with the regal Sharman.”

Critics Say The Show Isn’t Historically Accurate

Critics seemingly have the same opinion as Stein. Apparently, the show doesn’t exactly stick to the facts and, albeit entertaining to watch, doesn’t represent what truly happened during the Showtime era:

“Winning Time is a watchable show that doesn’t seem to have any other compelling reason to exist other than to be watched,” Cinema Blend reported. “Its tone is broadly comedic, but it’s not actually very funny; it’s a show about basketball that’s really a show about America, or capitalism, or guys who f*ck, or something. It’s a show about one of the most interesting subjects I can imagine that seems to fundamentally misunderstand what actually makes that subject interesting.”

West has opened up about how mistreated he’s felt by the Lakers over the past couple of years, so maybe this doesn’t exactly come as a surprise to him. Hopefully, his portrayal on the show won’t stain his nearly-unmatchedlegacy.

One could argue that someone like West should have a privileged spot in the franchise until the day he leaves this Earth. However, it seems like ‘The Logo‘ is no longer welcome on the premises.

In a recent interview with The Athletic, the legendary shooting guard opened up on how poorly the organization has treated him since Jeanie Buss took over, stating that he doesn’t even have a relationship with them anymore.

Jerry West Says He Has A Horrible Relationship With The Lakers

“One disappointing thing (about my career) is that my relationship with the Lakers is horrible,” West said. “I still don’t know why. And at the end of the day, when I look back, I say, ‘Well, maybe I should have played somewhere else instead of with the Lakers, where someone would have at least appreciated how much you give, how much you cared.’”

The Lakers Stripped West’s Lifetime Season Tickets

West has had some run-offs with the team over the past couple of years. His son Ryan was dismissed from his scouting position allegedly because of his ties to his father, and they even stripped the lifetime season tickets Jerry Buss gave him:

“It was a cold phone text to my wife,” The Logo said. “No one had the nerve to call me, but that’s how petty they are, OK? And I love the Lakers, OK? I love to see them do well. It’s great for basketball. I’m proud of everything that happened when I was there. I’m proud of everything that happened when I wasn’t there — the positives.”

“But sometimes you feel like you’re discarded, like a piece of trash,” West added.”And there’s a couple of people over there — not Jeanie — but there’s a couple of people over there that, uh … I don’t get it. I don’t. … I always had a great relationship with Jeanie — at least I thought I did. I don’t know where it is now.”

West Says It’s Too Late To Make Amends

West was also offended when Jeanie Buss snubbed him from the Lakers’ all-time starting five, even choosing LeBron James ahead of him. Now, he feels like it’s just too late for reconciliation:

“No, it’s too late; it’s too late,” West concluded. “I don’t need to do that, OK? I really don’t need (it). It’s just (bothersome) how people change so much. And I don’t understand it, but it’s fine. It’s fine.”

It’s likely that will never know the details of what caused this rift. But legends deserve respect and Jerry West is one of the first people responsible for making the Lakers the world-class organization they’re nowadays.