Top 10 Most Exciting NBA Games in History

The NBA has delivered countless unforgettable moments, from buzzer-beaters to historic comebacks. Here are ten of the most exciting games in league history, filled with drama, intensity, and legendary performances.

1. 2016 NBA Finals, Game 7 – Cavaliers vs. Warriors

Arguably the greatest game in NBA history, LeBron James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 93-89 victory, securing the franchise’s first championship. LeBron’s iconic chase-down block and Kyrie Irving’s clutch three-pointer sealed an epic 3-1 series comeback against a 73-win Golden State Warriors team.

2. 1998 NBA Finals, Game 6 – Bulls vs. Jazz

Michael Jordan’s last game with the Bulls was a masterpiece. His game-winning shot over Bryon Russell with 5.2 seconds left clinched Chicago’s sixth title, cementing his GOAT legacy.

3. 2006 NBA Finals, Game 3 – Heat vs. Mavericks

Dwyane Wade put on a legendary performance, scoring 42 points to lead a massive comeback from a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter. The Heat went on to win the series, earning their first NBA championship.

4. 2013 NBA Finals, Game 6 – Heat vs. Spurs

One of the wildest finishes in Finals history saw Ray Allen hit an impossible corner three to send the game into overtime. Miami pulled off the win and later clinched the championship in Game 7.

5. 1980 NBA Finals, Game 6 – Lakers vs. 76ers

With Kareem Abdul-Jabbar injured, rookie Magic Johnson stepped in at center, scoring 42 points and leading the Lakers to a title. It was one of the most remarkable individual performances in NBA history.

6. 2001 NBA Finals, Game 1 – 76ers vs. Lakers

Allen Iverson stunned the heavily favored Lakers with 48 points, including his iconic stepover on Tyronn Lue, giving Philly a surprising win. Though the Sixers lost the series, this game remains legendary.

7. 1994 Western Conference Semifinals, Game 7 – Nuggets vs. Sonics

The 8th-seeded Denver Nuggets shocked the No. 1 seed Seattle SuperSonics in overtime, marking the first time an 8-seed eliminated a 1-seed in NBA history.

8. 2019 NBA Playoffs, Game 7 – Raptors vs. 76ers

Kawhi Leonard’s buzzer-beater, the first Game 7 buzzer-beater in NBA history, bounced four times on the rim before dropping in, sending Toronto to the Eastern Conference Finals.

9. 1984 NBA Finals, Game 4 – Celtics vs. Lakers

A dramatic overtime thriller saw the Celtics edge out the Lakers 129-125, fueled by Larry Bird’s clutch performance and the intense rivalry between the two teams.

10. 1976 NBA Finals, Game 5 – Celtics vs. Suns

Often called the greatest game ever played, this triple-overtime showdown saw Boston survive Phoenix in a back-and-forth battle, featuring heroic plays from both sides.

Each of these games left an indelible mark on NBA history, showcasing elite talent, high stakes, and unforgettable moments. Which one is your favorite?