When it comes to unforgettable NBA moments, some plays transcend the game and become part of basketball lore. These incredible feats are more than just stats—they’re part of what makes the sport thrilling.
From buzzer-beaters to incredible individual performances, here’s a rundown of the best NBA plays of all time, ranked in order of impact, excitement, and significance.
10. Larry Bird’s Steal – 1987 Eastern Conference Finals
One of the most iconic plays in NBA history, Larry Bird’s steal against the Detroit Pistons in Game 5 of the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals remains a testament to his basketball IQ and clutch gene. With just under 30 seconds remaining, Bird anticipated the pass, stole the ball, and assisted in setting up the game-winning basket by Dennis Johnson.
That defensive play helped the Celtics secure a crucial victory, propelling them closer to another NBA championship, with Bird’s steal and assist leading directly to a 108-107 Celtics win, helping them reach the NBA Finals.
9. Shaq Destroys the Backboard – 1993 Playoffs
When Shaquille O’Neal dunked on a fast break against the New Jersey Nets in the 1993 Playoffs, he shattered the backboard and made NBA history in the process. The sheer force of Shaq’s dunk broke the support structure of the basket, sending shards of glass flying across the court.
This was an unforgettable moment in NBA history, highlighting the dominance of one of the league’s most imposing physical forces. The game was delayed for over 20 minutes to repair the hoop, but the Orlando Magic went on to win the game 105-88.
8. LeBron James With “The Block” – 2016 NBA Finals
In a game that defined LeBron James’ career, his block against Andre Iguodala in the closing minutes of Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals is widely regarded as one of the most game-changing defensive plays in NBA history.
With the Cleveland Cavaliers leading by just one point, LeBron’s chase-down block prevented what would have been an easy layup for Iguodala, ensuring the Cavaliers’ historic victory and securing Cleveland’s first-ever NBA Championship. The Cavaliers won 93-89, and LeBron’s block helped seal the Cavaliers’ first NBA title, ending Cleveland’s 52-year championship drought.
7. Reggie Miller’s 8 Points in 9 Seconds – 1995 Playoffs
Reggie Miller’s remarkable 8 points in 9 seconds against the New York Knicks in the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals remains one of the most unbelievable sequences in playoff history.
With the Pacers down 105-99, Miller drained two three-pointers and hit a pair of free throws, including a game-winning 3-pointer with 0.3 seconds left on the clock, to steal a victory from the Knicks. It completed one of the most stunning comebacks in NBA history, leading the Pacers to a 107-105 win.
6. Tracy McGrady’s 13 Points in 35 Seconds – 2004
Tracy McGrady’s 13 points in 35 seconds against the San Antonio Spurs in 2004 is arguably the most impressive individual scoring burst in NBA history. With the Rockets down by 8 points, McGrady took over the game, scoring from all over the court, including a pair of three-pointers, two free throws, and a jumper.
This incredible feat helped McGrady lead the Rockets to a stunning 81-80 victory. McGrady scored 13 points in just 35 seconds, securing one of the most jaw-dropping comebacks ever.
5. Magic Johnson’s “Baby Skyhook” – 1987 NBA Finals
In one of the most memorable moments of the 1987 NBA Finals, Magic Johnson hit a signature “baby skyhook” over Boston’s Kevin McHale to give the Los Angeles Lakers a late lead in Game 4.
The shot, made while falling away from the basket, helped the Lakers secure a crucial 107-106 victory, pushing them toward another championship. Magic Johnson finished the game with 29 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists, and the Lakers won the Finals in six games, claiming the 1987 championship.
4. Kobe Bryant’s Last Shot – 2016
In his final game, Kobe Bryant put on a show that will never be forgotten. The Black Mamba scored 60 points against the Utah Jazz, including a stunning game-winner in the closing seconds.
His performance in the final game of his legendary 20-year career encapsulated everything that made Kobe Bryant one of the greatest players to ever step on the court. Bryant finished with 60 points, leading the Lakers to a 101-96 victory. His final shot, a three-pointer, capped an unforgettable performance.
3. “The Shot” by Michael Jordan – 1989 First Round
Perhaps the most iconic moment in NBA history, Michael Jordan’s “The Shot” against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1989 Eastern Conference First Round is one of the best NBA moments ever. With just 3 seconds left, Jordan launched a jumper over Craig Ehlo to give the Chicago Bulls a thrilling 101-100 win.
This moment became a defining part of Jordan’s legacy as the greatest basketball player of all time. Jordan scored 44 points in the game, and the Bulls won the series 3-2, moving on to the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
2. The 0.4 Shot – Derek Fisher – 2004 Playoffs
Derek Fisher’s 0.4-second shot against the San Antonio Spurs in the 2004 Western Conference Semifinals is another one of the best NBA plays of all time. With the Lakers trailing by one point and only 0.4 seconds left on the clock, Fisher caught an inbounds pass and released a jump shot that barely beat the buzzer.
It led the Lakers to a 74-73 victory and kept their championship hopes alive. Fisher’s shot helped the Lakers win the game 74-73 and ultimately advance to the NBA Finals, where they would face the Detroit Pistons.
1. Michael Jordan’s Last Shot – 1998 NBA Finals
Michael Jordan’s final shot in Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals is not just one of the best NBA plays of all time—it’s the defining moment of his career. With the Chicago Bulls trailing by one point, Jordan hit a jump shot over Utah’s Byron Russell to give the Bulls an 87-86 lead and their sixth NBA title.
This iconic shot cemented Jordan’s legacy as the greatest player to ever play the game. Jordan’s final shot in the 1998 Finals secured the Bulls’ sixth title, and he finished with 45 points in the game. This shot capped his legendary career, completing a dynasty for the Chicago Bulls.
