The 10 greatest NBA Playoffs performances of all time

6. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Game 6, 1974 NBA Finals, May 10, 1974

Before the term “Big 3” became common in the game of basketball, the 1974 NBA Finals featured two teams that had their own versions of the concept. The Eastern Conference champion Boston Celtics were led by forward John Havlicek, center Dave Cowens, and guard Jo Jo White. The Western Conference champion Milwaukee Bucks were led by a backcourt of Oscar Robertson, Bobby Dandridge, and center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Entering Game 6, the Celtics were up three games to two and had an opportunity to close out the series in front of their hometown fans. Havlicek, a holdover from the era of Bill Russell and Bob Cousy, understood the importance of winning at home in order to prevent having to play Game 7 in Milwaukee. As a result, he poured in 36 points in front of the raucous crowd at the Boston Garden.

Although Havlicek had a great game, the Bucks’ superstar center simply would not be denied. Not only did he hit several timely baskets to keep his team in contention, he made the deciding field goal with three seconds left in the 2nd overtime. Fittingly, it was his now-famous “sky hook” that sealed the game for Milwaukee. The Bucks escaped with a 102–101 victory.

Abdul-Jabbar’s stat line for the night included 34 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks. This is a tribute to his all-around greatness, not just his ability to score. The Celtics would go on to win Game 7 in Milwaukee by a score of 102 to 87 to claim the title. However, Kareem’s performance in Game 6, including the game-winning shot, remains one for the ages.