There has always been some huge rivalries in NBA seasons that have not only spiced up the games, but become an integral part of the league’s history as well. Out of them, five rivalries are considered to be most influential, and impacted the game the most.
5 Greatest Rivalries in the History of the NBA
When it comes to contention’, one of the biggest rivalries is between the LA Lakers and the Boston Celtics. These two teams have a history that goes back to the 50s and they have faced off in the finals more than once. Their flair has been defined as diametrical—L.A.’s high-flying play and Boston’s tough physical play have brought out the best and created excitement and hard-nosed competition. How exactly did this rivalry turn into one that would nicely fit into the archives of NBA history?
Another significant rivalry was between Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls and the Detroit Pistons, nicknamed “the Bad Boys.” The Pistons’ physical play continued to prove irritating to Jordan and his teammates throughout several playoff series at the end of the 1980s. This one not only illustrates a good basketball rivalry but also shows how Jordan transformed into a champion.
The Miami Heat and New York Knicks rivalry came to a head in the late 1990s after Pat Riley, the Knicks’ head coach at the time, left New York to join Miami. Their playoff games were full of excitement, incidents, and even fisticuffs, which cemented the rivalry. That brings us to the question—what has fuelled this rivalry the most?
Subsequently, there has been some sort of beef between LeBron James and the Golden State Warriors. Currently with the Miami Heat, the team of James played against in four straight finals from 2015 to 2018 three times. In addition to the effects of so-called ‘superstar’ match-ups, this rivalry tackled topics like shifts in tactics in the course of NBA games.
Finally, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors had very intense battles culminating in their meeting at the 2016 NBA finals where the Cavs recorded a record-breaking streak, coming from behind in the third quarter to defeat the GS Warriors 3-1. This historical comeback not only revolutionized the perception of LeBron James but also reminded the world of how fierce basketball has become.
Such rivalries have not only characterized periods in NBA history, but also shaped the league’s appeal. Over the years more and more team formations will be made and hence new rivalries are likely to develop shortly so that fans can look forward to a new round of competition.
