The Spurs have secured yet another title, adding further lore to the dynasty led by Gregg Popovich, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker.
While it has taken different forms, this Spurs group won its fifth title in 16 years on Sunday. It is the first title for the franchise, which lost in the NBA Finals last year, since the 2006-07 season.
San Antonio entered Game 5 with a 3-1 lead over the Heat, a team that plays best with its back against the wall. None of Miami’s past successes mattered in this moment, however.
The Spurs manufactured a 104-87 win over the Heat, posting a third straight blowout win over the back-to-back title winners. On this night, with Parker struggling, Ginobili, Kawhi Leonard and Patty Mills banded together to dethrone LeBron James and the Heat.
The loss means Miami missed out on a chance to three-peat. They’ve made the Finals four straight times and finished with a 2-2 record in those series.
James started the game playing with a purpose, putting together one of the more impressive first-quarter stat lines you’re going to see. James posted 17 points, five rebounds, two blocks and an assist in the first 12 minutes. He finished with 31 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
But when James ran out of gas in the second quarter, Miami sputtered as his teammates struggled to provide help. Chris Bosh, who guaranteed a Game 5 win, disappeared; Dwyane Wade showed his age too often, and Ray Allen played the role of Mario Chalmers, missing open looks and throwing turnovers.
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SOURCE: Sporting News – DeAntae Prince
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