Cleveland Cavaliers created history, winning their first NBA title, after they defeated the Golden State Warriors 93-89 in Game 7 on Sunday. With this victory, they won the best-of-seven series 4-3. LeBron James led the team extremely well throughout the series, and was at a 'loss for words' after the historic triumph.
Not only did they win their maiden title, Cleveland have become the first team in history to come back from 3-1 down to win the NBA finals. James was at his menacing best in the last three games, scoring 41 points each in games 5 and 6, before once again top-scoring for his team in the decider with 27 points. Such performances helped him win the NBA Finals MVP as well.
James' celebration with his teammates after that astounding win reflected how much the title meant for him, as he is one of Cleveland's favourite sons.
"I'm happy to be a part of history," nba.com quoted James said as saying.
"I'm home. I'm home. ... I'm at a loss for words. This is unbelievable."
It was not only James' offensive play that bagged the headlines. His defensive nous was also brilliant, especially a solid block in the dying minutes of the game to keep the game tied at 89-89. Kyrie Irving, who supported James in the finals, drilled one crucial three under pressure to give Cleveland the lead, with the guard finishing with 26 points.
Though James and Irving might have been the heroes, one cannot forget the contribution of coach Tyronn Lue, who had a perfect gameplan to get his best players shine. Even Golden State's Draymond Green could not withstand James' brilliance.
"We made history tonight," Lue said. "Cleveland, Ohio, we're coming back, baby!"
But, in such big occasions, when there is happiness for one team, the other side do not exactyl feel the same. It is unfortunate that Golden State finished second best, after a stunning regular season, where Stephen Curry led his team to a record 73 wins.
Draymond Green top-scored with 32 points, but Curry, who scored 17 points, and had a below par shooting night (4-14 from three point range), took the blame for the loss. Curry played an integral part in winning the title last season, and believes they will have similar opportunities to in the future.
"I didn't do enough to help my team win," Curry said. "It will haunt me for a while."
"It hurts, man. I'm proud of every single guy that stepped foot on the floor for our team this year. ... Hopefully we'll have many more opportunities to fight for championships and be on this stage. This is what it's all about."
