One of the most unforgettable moments in NBA history occurred on June 19, 2016, during Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Kyrie Irving’s clutch three-point shot sealed the victory for the Cleveland Cavaliers over the Golden State Warriors, cementing his place in basketball lore and altering the landscape of the NBA. This pivotal moment is etched in the memories of both Irving and Warriors’ star Steph Curry.
In a recent interview with Logan Murdock of The Ringer, Curry and Irving revisited this iconic game, providing insights into the critical play that determined the championship.
Recalling the tense final moments, Curry explained his defensive strategy against Irving. “I thought I was close enough that I could take away the pull-up, and then your whole goal is to just keep a body on him and [make him] drive into traffic,” Curry told Murdock. However, despite his well-thought-out approach, Curry missed a crucial detail about Irving’s game.
Irving revealed the nuance that gave him the edge. “One thing that he didn’t know was that I had a right stepback,” Irving said. “So when I dribbled and I hesi’d and I kind of got him off and I stepped right, he didn’t expect me to step right because he wasn’t close enough to my body to get a great contest.” This subtle yet decisive move allowed Irving to create the necessary space for his shot.
Curry reflected on how narrowly the contest could have gone differently. “There was one half step that, in retrospect, that little side step gave him enough of a distance,” Curry acknowledged. “Because a contest was there, but he was just over the top of it. I did everything, I thought. … It’s a game of inches.” Despite his best efforts, Irving’s precision and skill turned a minimal gap into a game-winning opportunity.
The dynamic between Curry and Irving extends beyond this singular moment. Their rivalry is characterized by mutual respect and a series of intense battles where both have triumphed at different times. This balance of competition and victory is what fuels their legendary status in the NBA.
For Irving, the shot was a culmination of years of hard work and preparation. It wasn’t just about the mechanics of the play but also the mental fortitude to execute under pressure.
“I am very happy to be part of this great club and team, and very grateful to the directors and the coach for this great opportunity they have given me. I have always dreamed of playing in Chennai, and now I’m given this beautiful opportunity,” Irving had previously remarked in a different context, reflecting his mindset of gratitude and readiness for big moments.
Curry took the outcome in stride, recognizing the greatness in Irving’s performance. Their encounters, marked by moments like the 2016 Finals, continue to captivate basketball fans and contribute to the rich history of the NBA.
As both players move forward in their careers, the legacy of that night in June 2016 remains a defining chapter. It serves as a reminder of the high stakes and fine margins that characterize professional basketball, where every inch counts and every moment can become legendary.
