The best of this day in NBA sports history. June 11. Derek Fisher was clutch in the NBA Finals, NBA Ambassadors against Hong Kong, the first eighth-seeded team in the Finals, and Boston’s 5 for 20. What happened on this day in NBA history?
Derek Fisher Was Clutch In the NBA Finals
Derek Fisher sank a three-pointer over Jameer Nelson to send Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the Orlando Magic into overtime. In overtime, Fisher himself sank a go-ahead three-pointer with 31.3 seconds left, helping the Lakers take a 3-1 series lead and the eventual championship.
NBA Ambassadors Against Hong Kong
NBA Ambassadors claimed a 107-77 victory over Hong Kong at Southorn Stadium in Hong Kong. A performance featuring Shawnelle Scott (18) and former University of South Carolina star B.J. McKie (16) improved the Ambassadors’ record to 3-0 in the Asian Basketball Association League (BASL). The Ambassadors, coached by NBA legend Nate “Tiny” Archibald, were representing the National Basketball Development League (NDDL).
The first 8th Seed In the NBA Finals
The New York Knicks became the first No. 8 seed to reach the NBA Finals when they defeated the Indiana Pacers 90-82 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Knicks would advance to the Finals to face the San Antonio Spurs for the championship.
The First Time In Finals History
Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls and Charles Barkley of the Phoenix Suns marked the first time in NBA Finals history that two opposing players each scored 40 or more points in a Finals game. They each scored 42 points in Chicago’s 111-108 victory.
Boston’s 5-Of-20
Led by Dennis Johnson with 25 points, five Boston players scored 20 or more points to tie an NBA Finals record when the Celtics defeated Los Angeles 123-108 in Game 5. However, the Lakers rallied to win the NBA Championship in six games.
Final Thoughts: This Day In NBA Sports History
If you missed the last article entitled This Day In NBA Sports History, read about it here on June 10.
