THE GOLDEN STATE Warriors became the new holders of the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy with a 105-97 road win over LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers last night, wrapping up the best-of-seven series in six games.
And few could deny they deserved their first NBA title since 1975.
Like their NFL neighbours across the Oakland car park they call home, the Warriors have long been one of basketball’s most dysfunctional teams. However, under first year coach Steve Kerr, the Warriors set the NBA on fire this season.
Last night was just a microcosm of what makes this team so great. While Steph Curry nailed the key three-pointers everyone has come to expect, in game six he was happy enough to step back and let his passing do the talking.
Passes like this:
https://vine.co/v/eeVer5QPTXq
With the Cavs double-teaming the regular season MVP, he shared top-scoring honours with Andre Iguodala, a man who didn’t start a game during the NBA’s long regular season but who was last night named the best player of the Finals.
For Cleveland, despite the best efforts of LeBron, it’s yet another season without a major sporting title for one of the US’ least successful cities.
Still, the best player of his generation showed class in defeat:
https://vine.co/v/eeVlmT6lZZ9
Best wishes Mattie! He had great success as Galway’s minor hurling coach with several All Ireland titles. Dublin is the giant waiting to wake up and he could be the key to their success.