It’s been nearly a decade since the last time basketball’s biggest stage saw a Game 7, a dramatic gap for a league built on parity, drama, and high-stakes matchups.

This will be just the sixth Game 7 in over three decades, a rarity that only adds to the magnitude of Sunday’s contest in Oklahoma City. So, when was the last time the NBA delivered the ultimate showdown? The answer will bring great memories that include LeBron James and Stephen Curry.

When was the last Game 7 in NBA Finals history?

The most recent Game 7 in the NBA Finals took place on June 19, 2016, when the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors squared off in a historic conclusion to an unforgettable series.

The Warriors, led by the “Splash Brothers” Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, had entered the playoffs after posting a record-breaking 73–9 regular season. They took a commanding 3–1 series lead and appeared poised to cap off a historic year.

However, what followed was arguably the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history. LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and the Cavaliers rattled off three straight wins to become the first team ever to overcome a 3–1 deficit in the Finals. Game 7 at Oracle Arena was a tense, low-scoring battle that ended 93–89 in favor of the Cavs.

The game was punctuated by LeBron’s iconic chase-down block, Kyrie’s clutch three-pointer over Curry, and an emotional outpouring from a franchise that had waited over 50 years for its first title.

The Pacers have shown tremendous heart, playing as big underdogs in almost every game of the series. Still, with their backs against the wall and facing a 3-2 deficit, they defended their home court at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with a dominant 108-91 victory.

Now, the big question in the NBA is whether the performance of Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton will shift the odds for that final battle. The odds have already been released and, once again, there’s a major surprise.

What are the odds for Pacers vs Thunder in Game 7 of NBA Finals?

The Oklahoma City Thunder are 7.5-point favorites over the Indiana Pacers heading into Game 7, which will take place this Sunday at Paycom Center. Once again, Indiana enters as one of the biggest underdogs in NBA Finals history for a winner-take-all showdown.

The moneyline has the Thunder at -300, showing full confidence in their home-court advantage, while the Pacers are currently listed at +250. Again, that would be a massive upset.

What is the over/under for Game 7 of NBA Finals 2025?

The over/under for Game 7 between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder is set at 215.5 points, making it the highest projected total for a Game 7 in NBA Finals recent history.

“[Tyrese] Haliburton has looked awful and I’m glad he’s injured,” Smith said. “I’m not saying I’m glad he’s injured, but I’m glad we got that as a rational.” That was part of the ESPN analyst’s blunt message directed at the Pacers guard, who struggled to find any rhythm in the first half.

Smith didn’t stop there: “I’m not trying to be mean or whatever, just be factual. He looks bad, he was not active, he was not aggressive. He’s not helping them.” Despite the harsh criticism, Haliburton did return to the game — at that point scoreless with 0 points on 0-for-5 shooting.

Disappointing Game 5

Things only got worse in Game 5. Haliburton finished with just 4 points in a game of major importance for Indiana. While he did improve on the glass with 7 rebounds — better than the 2 and 3 boards he posted in Games 4 and 2 — his shooting completely collapsed. He finished with 0% from the field and 0% from beyond the arc in the NBA Finals loss to OKC.

Haliburton’s Injury Isn’t New

It’s worth noting that concerns about Tyrese Haliburton’s health aren’t new. Back on June 10, reports surfaced that he was wearing kinesiology tape — something that caught the attention of Pacers fans. Although nothing had been officially said about a calf issue at the time, the tape was clearly applied to that area.

In Game 4, Haliburton scored 18 points but showed a noticeable drop in other areas — grabbing just 2 rebounds and shooting a rough 14.3% from three-point range. It’s unclear whether that dip in performance was connected to an underlying injury.

In an attempt to clarify the situation, Smith posted on X: “Yep! That’s me. Who would’ve thought… I can multi-task. Especially during TIMEOUTS! Hope y’all are enjoying the NBA Finals.” However, his post was flagged with a context note by users suggesting he was lying.

The person who took the photo insists there was no timeout at the time, and another user even posted a video showing Smith playing Solitaire while the game was still underway, with players actively competing on the court.

Smith tried to defend himself

Along with his message on X, Smith also posted a screenshot showing the Solitaire game on his phone with a small window at the top displaying a live stream of NBA Finals Game 4. Still, the backlash was swift.

One reply summed up the public sentiment: “Watching the NBA Finals game on your phone while playing Solitaire while also at the actual NBA Finals game. This not looking good Stephen A. You wouldn’t be playing Solitaire if the game was actually enjoyable to watch.”

Kevin Durant joins the criticism

Kevin Durant also chimed in. On his personal Instagram Stories, Durant reposted the viral photo of Smith playing Solitaire and added a short message: “Cmon Steve.” No other players have responded publicly as of yet.

The NBA Finals are where legends are made, and only a rare few have reached that stage countless times. From dynastic Celtics to modern superstars, the Finals have long been a proving ground for greatness — and for winners.

Across decades, some players have redefined what it means to chase championships, appearing on the biggest stage again and again. Whether through resilience or pure talent, these icons carved their names into NBA lore.

Their journeys tell a story of determination, sacrifice and glory, shaping the narrative of the league itself. As the Finals spotlight shone brightest, these all-time greats kept finding their way back, season after season.

Bill Russell – 12 appearances

Bill Russell holds the all-time record for NBA Finals appearances with 12 trips to the championship round, all with the Boston Celtics. His dominance in the 1950s and 1960s helped define the NBA’s early years, and he secured an astonishing 11 championships in those 12 appearances — a record that remains untouchable.

He was known for his incredible defensive presence, shot-blocking, and leadership, which were the backbone of Boston’s dynasty. Beyond the stats, his legacy goes far deeper.

He was a pioneer for African American athletes and a civil rights advocate, using his platform to speak out against racism during a turbulent era in American history. Even today, his influence is felt, and the NBA Finals MVP trophy is named in his honor.

Sam Jones – 11 appearances

Sam Jones, often called “Mr. Clutch”, appeared in 11 NBA Finals, all with the Celtics alongside Bill Russell. Known for his deadly bank shot and ability to deliver in crucial moments, he was one of Boston’s most reliable scorers.

With 10 championships under his belt, he ranks second only to Russell in rings won, making him a key figure in one of the greatest dynasties in sports history. Despite not being as famous as some of his teammates, his impact was enormous.

His cool demeanor and ability to rise to the occasion in critical games made him a player coaches and teammates trusted. Without his scoring prowess, many of those Celtics championships would not have been possible.

LeBron James – 10 appearances

LeBron James has reached the NBA Finals 10 times over a career spanning two decades, playing for the Cavaliers, Heat and Lakers. His Finals journey is marked by resilience and adaptability, facing off against dynasties like the Spurs and Warriors.

With 4 championships so far, his Finals record is sometimes debated, but few deny his greatness and consistent ability to carry teams to the biggest stage. His legacy is not just about wins and losses — it’s about longevity, versatility, and rewriting what’s possible for a basketball player.

Whether leading massive comebacks, like the 2016 Finals against Golden State, or winning a title in the bubble with the Lakers, he has cemented his place among the greatest ever.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 10 appearances

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar made 10 Finals appearances with the Bucks and Lakers, winning 6 championships and establishing himself as one of the most dominant centers in history. Famous for his skyhook shot, he was a model of consistency and excellence, performing at a high level well into his late 30s.

His Finals runs spanned nearly two decades, a testament to his conditioning and skill. Off the court, he was a thoughtful and outspoken athlete, engaging in social and political issues and becoming an intellectual figure in sports.

His impact on the game is felt both through his records — including being the NBA’s all-time leading scorer for nearly 40 years — and his contributions to culture and society.

Magic Johnson – 9 appearances

Magic Johnson’s nine NBA Finals appearances all came with the Lakers during the 1980s, where he led the “Showtime” era to five championships. Known for his dazzling passing, infectious charisma and clutch performances, he transformed the point guard position and became one of the most marketable stars in NBA history. His Finals battles against Larry Bird’s Celtics are legendary.

His impact extended beyond the court. His public announcement of his HIV diagnosis in 1991 changed the conversation around the disease, and his business ventures after retirement made him a global figure. His Finals performances and leadership made him a cornerstone of NBA history.

Jerry West – 9 appearances

Jerry West, famously nicknamed “Mr. Clutch,” reached the NBA Finals nine times with the Lakers but won only one championship in 1972. Despite the tough Finals losses, often to the Celtics, he remains one of the most respected players in league history.

Remarkably, he’s the only player to win Finals MVP (1969) while playing on the losing team. His competitive fire, leadership, and scoring ability defined his era.

After his playing career, he became one of the most successful executives in NBA history, helping to build Lakers dynasties in the 1980s and early 2000s. His silhouette is literally the NBA logo, a testament to his lasting influence.

Tom Heinsohn – 9 appearances

Tom Heinsohn reached the NBA Finals nine times with the Celtics, winning eight championships during Boston’s golden era. As a power forward, he brought toughness, scoring, and rebounding, making him an essential piece of the team’s dynasty. After his playing days, he continued to influence the team as a coach and longtime broadcaster.

His love for the Celtics spanned over six decades, making him one of the most beloved figures in franchise history. His passion for the game and his team’s success helped set the tone for generations of Celtics players and fans alike.

Michael Cooper – 8 appearances

Michael Cooper appeared in eight NBA Finals with the Lakers, serving as a defensive anchor and utility player during the “Showtime” era. Renowned for his perimeter defense, he was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best scorer, making crucial stops in key moments.

His contributions helped the Lakers win five championships in the 1980s. His role on the Lakers was invaluable even though his stats didn’t always jump off the page.

His versatility and ability to impact games without needing the ball in his hands made him the ultimate teammate and one of the most respected role players in NBA history.

Dennis Rodman – 8 appearances

Dennis Rodman reached eight NBA Finals with the Pistons, Bulls and Spurs, winning five championships. Known as one of the greatest rebounders and defenders ever, his relentless hustle and ability to get inside opponents’ heads were his trademarks. His Finals battles, especially during the Bulls’ second three-peat, cemented his legacy as a key piece of championship teams.

Off the court, he became a pop culture icon, known for his eccentric personality, tattoos, piercings, and tabloid headlines. But on the floor, he was a tireless competitor and an irreplaceable glue guy on some of the best teams ever assembled.

Frank Ramsey – 8 appearances

Frank Ramsey played in eight NBA Finals with the Celtics, winning seven championships. Often called the NBA’s first “sixth man”, he came off the bench to provide scoring punch and versatility, redefining the value of a reserve player. His selflessness and adaptability were key to Boston’s incredible run of success.

His role set a precedent for future generations, proving that being a bench player didn’t mean being any less important. His contributions were crucial to the Celtics’ dynasty, and he remains a celebrated figure in the team’s history.

For over seven decades, the NBA Finals have crowned champions who shaped basketball history, turning players into legends and cities into basketball capitals. Each title marks a chapter of triumph and resilience.

From the dynasties of the Celtics and Lakers to the rise of new powers like the Warriors, the league’s landscape has constantly shifted, reflecting eras of dominance, fierce rivalries and unforgettable moments.

Yet, beyond the banners and rings, the Finals reveal something deeper: the heartbreaks, near-misses and enduring pursuit of greatness that define the National Basketball Association’s most iconic teams and players.

List of NBA winners by year

What teams have the most NBA championships?

Certain franchises have managed to secure their place in the pantheon of greatness by winning multiple championships. Among these, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics stand head and shoulders above the rest.

With 17 championships each, these two teams are tied for the most titles in NBA history. The Lakers, known for their iconic players such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, have dominated several eras.

From the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s to the Kobe-Shaq dynasty in the early 2000s and more recently, their 2020 triumph with LeBron James, the Lakers have constantly redefined what it means to be a championship contender.

Boston also boast 17 titles, with their most dominant period occurring in the 1950s and 1960s. Under the leadership of coach Red Auerbach and with Bill Russell anchoring their defense, they won 11 championships in 13 years, a feat unmatched in NBA history.

Beyond the Celtics and Lakers, other teams with a rich history of success include the Chicago Bulls, with 6 championships, and the Golden State Warriors, who have claimed 7 titles, according to the ESPN and Basketball Reference.

What teams never won an NBA championship?

While the NBA has celebrated countless championship triumphs, several franchises are still chasing their first title. Some have come heartbreakingly close, while others have struggled to even reach the Finals…

• Minnesota Timberwolves: Despite the brilliance of Kevin Garnett in the early 2000s, they have never reached the NBA Finals. Their best season came in 2004 when they reached the Western Conference Finals, falling to the Los Angeles Lakers. In recent years, the team has shown promise with rising stars like Anthony Edwards, but a championship remains out of reach.

• Phoenix Suns: The Suns have been one of the most competitive and well-supported franchises without a ring. They reached the NBA Finals three times: in 1976, 1993, and most recently in 2021. Despite strong rosters featuring stars like Charles Barkley, Steve Nash and Devin Booker, they fell short each time, most recently losing to the Milwaukee Bucks in six games.

• Utah Jazz: Known for the iconic duo of John Stockton and Karl Malone, they made back-to-back Finals appearances in 1997 and 1998. Unfortunately, both runs ended in defeat to Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. Since then, the team have remained competitive but have not broken through to a championship.

• Indiana Pacers: A powerhouse in the ABA before joining the NBA, they have yet to win an NBA title. Their lone NBA Finals appearance came in 2000, where they lost to the Lakers led by Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. Indiana has often been a playoff fixture, but the championship has remained elusive.

• Orlando Magic: They have made two Finals appearances—in 1995, led by Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway, and in 2009, with Dwight Howard anchoring the team. Both times, they fell short: first to the Houston Rockets and then to the Lakers. The team has been rebuilding in recent years, searching for the next superstar to lead them back to the top.

• Brooklyn Nets: Formerly the New Jersey Nets, the franchise reached the Finals in 2002 and 2003 but lost to the Lakers and the Spurs, respectively. In recent years, despite assembling superstar lineups with Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden, they have fallen short of even reaching the Finals.

Although basketball is a sport where nothing can be taken for granted, the statistics largely favor one team: the Boston Celtics, who have already taken a 3-0 lead in the Finals and are threatening to sweep the Dallas Mavericks.

No team in history has ever reversed a 3-0 deficit in any playoff series, and only once has a 1-3 deficit been reversed in the Finals (the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Golden State Warriors in 2016). This is why many are starting to foresee a new title for the Celtics, which will, of course, come with the traditional championship ring.

The value of the championship ring

There is no precise answer to this question, but we can estimate a close value. Depending on the season, the winning team, and the design, these coveted rings can cost between $10,000 and $40,000.

However, this is just the average. Some rings, adorned with the finest materials and intricate designs, can exceed $100,000. And this could be the case with this 2023/2024 season’s championship ring.

Now, in the start of long awaited series, the Dallas Mavericks were crushed 107-89 in a shocking turn of events after the Mavs eliminated big contenders such as the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Although Luka Doncic put 30 points, Irving had one of his worst performances in the postseason: 12 points, 2 assists and 3 rebounds in 36 minutes. Game 2 will be played next Sunday night.

“There were a lot of emotions going into Game 1. Just waiting for the opportunity to go out there and compete. We just have to get this out of the way. We didn’t perform they way we would have wanted. It starts with me. I’ve got to take some accountability for it. They came out and hit us in the mouth early. We’re going to take our lessons and get ready for a good Game 2”

Kyrie Irving mocks Celtics fans

After the game, Kyrie Irving was asked about the environment and the constant pressure by fans every time he had the ball. Kyrie took a subtle shot at Boston Celtics fans.

“I’m used to it at this point of my career. I thought it was going to be a little bit louder in here. I’m expecting the same things going into Game 2. Crowd trying to get me out of my element. The energy has to be focused on the game. I just have to stay confident. Environment is going to be what it is.”

The legendary quarterbacks took sides, with the seven-time Super Bowl champion looking at the camera in the hype video for Joe Mazzulla’s team, while the Kansas City Chiefs superstar hyped Jason Kidd’s men.

Brady’s appearance in the Celtics‘ piece of content makes sense considering his history with the New England Patriots, with whom he spent 20 of his 23 seasons in the National Football League.

Mahomes, on the other hand, is a lifelong Mavs fan as he was born in Tyler, Texas, just a few miles away from Dallas. His career led him to Kansas City, but the Texas Tech product doesn’t forget about his roots.

What Brady and Mahomes said ahead of the 2024 NBA Finals

The Celtics have experienced the criticism and hatred from other fanbases throughout the season, with fans even chanting “We want Boston” as they wanted to see Jayson Tatum and company fall.

Brady, who used to be an unpopular star for opposing fans while in New England, understands what the Celtics have experienced this season. Which is why he emphasized on this situation in his hype video. “Really? You want Boston? Take it from me, that’s a bad idea,” Brady said.

Mahomes, on the other hand, stressed how the Mavs defied the odds this year, encouraging Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and company to get he job done.

“If you don’t believe in winning this title, you shouldn’t be here,” Mahomes said. “You know what it costs to get this far. Every moment of your life has led you to this. And if you want to hold that trophy, it will cost a lot more. Nobody expected the Mavs. Nobody wanted the Mavs. But nobody can deny it that you’ve earned it.”

Brady and Mahomes’ history with championships

Both Brady and Mahomes know a thing or two about winning championships. While the former holds the record for the most Super Bowl victories with seven, the latter is looking to chase that feat with three titles at just 28.

The Chiefs star is even looking for an unprecedented three-peat in the NFL after leading Kansas City to the top in the last two seasons. However, Brady did set the head-to-head playoff record against Mahomes in his favor before calling it a career.

Brady first gained the upper hand in the 2019 AFC Championship Game with the Patriots, eventually beating Mahomes’ Chiefs for his seventh and last Super Bowl ring in 2021, this time in a Tampa Bay Buccaneers uniform.

Kidd knows what is like to make it to this stage of the postseason as a player, as he was the Mavs’ starting point guard in the team’s road to the title in 2011. However, he made it clear that the coaches have it tougher than the players to make it all the way here.

“A lot harder to coach. It’s fun, but it’s harder. As a player, it’s easy. You have a little bit more control. As a player, it’s a lot easier. As a coach, it’s harder, but it’s gratifying,” Kidd said in a press conference ahead of Game 1.

Kidd’s comments should make Doncic, Irving and company aware that they haven’t achieved anything yet, and that they shouldn’t let the recent success go to their heads. The Mavs coach claims that thriving as the bench boss requires much more effort, but he still loves the job.

“It does feel good to be here. You’ve put in a lot of time. I got to wear glasses now because you watch so much video. It’s fun. It’s chess. I love playing chess, to be able to put players in position to be successful on and off the floor.”

Jason Kidd reminds of difficulty of making it to the NBA Finals

Kidd has made it to the NBA Finals on three occasions during his playing days, but fell short both in 2002 and 2003 with the Nets. It took him almost a decade to redeem himself with the Mavericks, but couldn’t return to the Finals after 2011.

“You’re never guaranteed to be back here. And that’s as a player, too. In ’11, we felt we could do it again, but we never made it back,” Kidd said.

2024 will see a much more mature Kidd look for another success in his career, this time as a head coach. It doesn’t look like an easy challenge though, with the Boston Celtics aiming to get the job done after a fantastic season.

2024 NBA Finals dates

• Game 1: Mavs @ Celtics – June 6 – 8:30 PM (ET)
• Game 2: Mavs @ Celtics – June 9 – 8 PM (ET)
• Game 3: Celtics @ Mavs – June 12 – 8:30 PM (ET)
• Game 4: Celtics @ Mavs – June 14 – 8:30 PM (ET)
• Game 5*: Mavs @ Celtics – June 17 – 8:30 PM (ET)
• Game 6*: Celtics @ Mavs – June 20 – 8:30 PM (ET)
• Game 7*: Mavs @ Celtics – June 23 – 8 PM (ET)

* If necessary.

The 2023 NBA Finals have ended. In five games, the Nuggets defeated the Miami Heat to get the title in a not so tough series for Denver. They had an incredible run during the Playoffs, and their effort paid off at the end of the campaign.

Nikola Jokic was a cluth player for Denver during the series. The NBA recognized his performance and named him the Most Valuable Player of the Finals, but how much will he get for it?

How much money will Nikola Jokic receive for being named the 2023 NBA Finals MVP?

In a very exciting game, the Nuggets were able to defeat the Miami Heat to end the series 4-1. This was their first NBA title, with Nikola Jokic being the most relevant player during the five matches.

The Serbian center was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2023 NBA Finals. Unfortunately, Jokic won’t receive money for this award, as the league doesn’t give one to the winner.

Jokic may receive a big paycheck if the Nuggets included a clause in his contract regarding this matter. Anyways, winning the NBA Finals was his main objective and he was able to do it after nine years in the league.