The 2015-16 Cleveland Cavaliers did something no other team has done or done ever since.
Not only did they manage to spoil the Golden State Warriors’ record-breaking 73-9 season, but they also became the first team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the NBA Finals.
In a recent episode of Shaquille O’Neal’s podcast, former Cavs G/F Iman Shumpert shared what LeBron James told the team (via NBA Central).
Iman Shumpert says LeBron James guaranteed that the Cavaliers would win Game 5 after they fell behind 3-1 against Golden State 👀🔥
(🎥 @bigpodwithshaq / https://t.co/dzKwEg965r) pic.twitter.com/yDQ4AhLGpo
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 18, 2024
Facing a 3-1 deficit, James guaranteed that the Cavaliers would win Game 5.
He told his teammates they would win that game, as Draymond Green was out with a suspension.
Then, they would be under a lot of pressure because the Warriors would have to win in Cleveland, and once the Cavs evened things up at three wins a piece, all the pressure would be on them.
That was precisely what happened, and the rest is history.
Granted, the Warriors deserve plenty of blame for being unable to close things out and finish the job, even with Green being out.
Still, the Cavaliers deserve the credit.
It was remarkable that they had the mental strength and drive to compete and push at the highest level despite having their backs against the wall.
Some believe that was the greatest championship win in NBA history.
While that’s a huge statement to make, considering the league’s rich history, they have a solid case to make for that distinction.
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