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NBA Playoffs: 30 best Game 7 performances in NBA Playoffs history

By Hans Themistode

(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Best Game 7 performances in NBA Playoffs history: 16. Shaquille O’Neal (2002)

Stat line: 

  • 35 points
  • 13 rebounds
  • 4 blocks

It was always a battle whenever the Los Angeles Lakers and the Sacramento Kings went head up. Although they were constantly close to pulling it off, the Kings simply could never get over that hump. With that said, they almost did in 2002.

After going up 3-2 in the Conference Finals, the Lakers had to scratch and claw their way back into the series. Once they did, they were still tasked with getting the job done on the road. For Shaquille O’Neal, he embraced that pressure and went on to destroy the Kings. It didn’t matter who they threw in his direction, Shaq was going to get his. He dropped 35 points and 13 rebounds in a game that needed overtime to decide it. He also swatted four shots as well.

Mostly because of his efforts, and a cool 30 points from Kobe Bryant, the Lakers sent the Kings home prematurely again and rolled to their third straight title.