A great NBA Finals series is almost unlike anything else in sports.
It holds the same level of excitement as single-elimination sporting events such as the NCAA tournament and the NFL Playoffs (Super Bowl, specifically), while bringing the sustained edge-of-your-seat moments of a World Series. And some of what makes the NBA best-of-seven memorable are the superstar performers and the moments they create — think MJ’s Flu game, LeBron’s block, etc. — all moments that helped solidify players and their Finals MVP honors.
But have you ever thought about those players who delivered those same moments, only to be outshined by a greater one? If so, you’re in for a treat.
We take a look at five superstar players who have won championships but didn’t do quite enough to secure a Finals MVP award.