On this day: Andre Iguodala’s series-changing Game 4 in 2015 Finals

Andre Iguodala’s performance in Game 4 of the 2015 NBA Finals changed the series.

Before Game 4 of the 2015 NBA Finals, Andre Iguodala wasn’t a shoo-in for Finals MVP. Iguodala had made an impact especially defensively, but not enough to warrant an award as prestigious as Finals MVP.

By the end of Game 4, though, Iguodala was a legitimate candidate, as his performance changed the series.

On June 11, 2015, the Warriors played the Cleveland Cavaliers and were down 2-1. The Warriors had a chance to tie the series in Cleveland, and Iguodala was pivotal in the team’s win. He scored 22 points, grabbed eight rebounds and shot 44.4% from the 3-point line as Golden State trounced the Cavs, 103-82.

Iguodala was crucial for the Warriors’ efforts in defending LeBron James. In the first three games of the series, James had averaged 41.0 points per game, along with 12.0 rebounds and 8.3 assists.

In Game 4, though, James scored a series-low 20 points and shot 31.8% from the field. As one of the Warriors’ best defenders, Iguodala bothered James on the perimeter with his length and quick hands.

During that series, Iguodala was second on the Warriors in scoring behind Steph Curry. He averaged 16.3 points per game on 52.1% shooting, and he also grabbed 5.8 rebounds a game.

After Game 4, the Warriors went on to win the next two games and consequently the title. Iguodala had another good game in Game 6, pouring in 25 points, grabbing five rebounds and dishing five assists as the Warriors defeated the Cavs, 105-97.

Iguodala isn’t finished playing yet, as he is currently on the Miami Heat. But his performance in Game 4 will be a significant part of his legacy. With his resume as a three-time champion, one-time All-Star and two-time All-Defensive team member, he’ll likely be a Hall of Famer.

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