June 6 marks the 23rd anniversary of one of the most iconic performances in NBA Finals history. On this day in 2001, Allen Iverson scored 48 points in his first NBA Finals game, leading the Philadelphia 76ers against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1. Iverson’s outstanding performance also included 6 assists, five rebounds, five steals, and 53 minutes of playtime.
The 2001 Lakers entered the Finals undefeated in the playoffs and hadn’t lost a single game since April 1st. Iverson wasted no time making his mark, scoring 12 points in the first quarter without attempting a three-pointer or free throw. His scoring prowess continued through the third quarter.
The fourth quarter saw both teams struggle offensively, with the 76ers scoring only 15 points and the Lakers 17. It then led the game to a tie at 94. But, in overtime, Iverson’s heroics were on full display.
With the game hanging in the balance, he scored 7 consecutive points in just one minute. His final basket, with 45 seconds left in overtime, brought his total to 48 points and secured a 107-101 victory for the 76ers.
Allen Iverson Stands Tall Among Scoring Champions in NBA Finals History
Over the last 50 years, only six NBA scoring champions have reached the NBA Finals. These elite players are Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant, and Allen Iverson.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Iverson’s professional basketball career spanned 17 seasons, during which he scored over 24,000 points and provided more than 5,000 assists. His scoring prowess was evident early on, and in 2007, he became the sixth fastest player in NBA history to reach 20,000 career points.
Throughout his career, LeBron James’ admirer player earned numerous accolades. He was named an All-NBA performer seven times and was selected to eleven NBA All-Star rosters. His ability to lead the league in scoring was unmatched during his peak years, as he won the regular season scoring title four times in 1999, 2001, 2002, and 2005.
Also Read: Philadelphia 76ers Regret Jimmy Butler Trade Amid His Max Extension Pursuit.
