Not everyone was on board with these epic final performances!
Winning the NBA Finals MVP is the highest individual honour in basketball’s biggest moment. Legends like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant have all earned unanimous recognition for their Finals performances, but not every superstar has achieved this unanimous acclaim. Since 1996, six Finals MVP winners did not receive unanimous votes. Were these selections truly controversial, or is there more to the story? Let’s explore the intriguing list of Finals MVPs who weren’t unanimous and what this signifies in NBA history.
In the 1996 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan earned his fourth Finals MVP, leading the Chicago Bulls to their fourth championship after a record-setting 72-win season. Despite shooting 41.5% from the field, partly due to Gary Payton's strong defence, Jordan delivered key performances, including a 36-point game in Game 3 and clutch plays in Game 6. However, Shawn Kemp of the Seattle SuperSonics provided strong competition. Kemp averaged 23.3 points and 10.0 rebounds per game with a 55.1% shooting efficiency, and his dominant play in Games 4 and 5 earned him three MVP votes, making the race closer than anticipated.
In the 2005 NBA Finals, Tim Duncan secured his third Finals MVP, though not unanimously. Duncan was a pillar for the Spurs, providing solid defence and key scoring, including 25 points and 11 rebounds in the decisive Game 7. However, his shooting efficiency wavered against the Pistons' tough defence, led by Ben Wallace. Manu Ginobili offered a strong challenge, with standout performances in Games 1 and 2, scoring 26 and 27 points, respectively, and igniting the Spurs' offence with his dynamic play. Ginobili’s impact led to a split in votes, as many felt his contributions were equally, if not more, significant.
Andre Iguodala’s 2015 Finals MVP award sparked debate, as his scoring wasn't elite but his impact was undeniable. His move to the starting lineup in Game 4 shifted the series, providing crucial defence and versatility, particularly against LeBron James. Iguodala’s defensive work, combined with timely shooting, was pivotal in the Warriors’ comeback from a 2-1 deficit. Conversely, LeBron James delivered one of the greatest Finals performances despite the Cavaliers' loss. With Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love injured, LeBron led all players in points, rebounds, and assists, including three 40+ point games. His almost solo effort made a strong case for him as MVP.
Kevin Durant won his second consecutive Finals MVP in 2018 with an impressive all-around performance, including a crucial 43-point game and a key three-pointer in Game 3. His scoring consistency and defensive versatility made him a clear choice for many voters. However, Stephen Curry also had a strong case. His 33-point Game 2, highlighted by an NBA Finals record nine three-pointers, showed his shooting brilliance. Despite a quieter Game 3, his 37-point Game 4 reminded voters of his impact and leadership. Curry’s votes reflected his explosive scoring and influence on the Warriors' sweep, balancing Durant’s steadier contributions.
Kawhi Leonard was the undeniable leader of the Raptors' historic championship run in 2019, earning Finals MVP honours with his dominant two-way play and clutch performances. Leonard's scoring, rebounding, and defensive efforts were pivotal throughout the series, particularly against a banged-up Warriors team. Despite Leonard's clear impact, one voter believed Fred VanVleet deserved recognition for his crucial contributions, especially in the series' later games. VanVleet’s defence on Stephen Curry and his timely three-pointers, including a standout 22-point performance in Game 6, significantly swung momentum. Some considered his gritty play off the bench MVP-worthy, adding depth to the MVP debate.
While none of these MVPs were unanimous, one fact is undeniable: their efforts aided their teams to win a championship!
