Ep 1. 1981 NBA Finals Game 1
- May 5, 1981
The 1981 NBA Finals Game 1 is the first episode of season 12 of the NBA show. This episode focuses on the first game of the 1981 NBA Finals, which was played between the Boston Celtics and the Houston Rockets at Boston Garden.
The episode begins by setting the stage for the game, highlighting the significance of the matchup between these two teams. The Boston Celtics were a dominant force in the NBA at the time, having won the championship in 1980 and boasting a roster that included legendary players like Larry Bird, Robert Parish, and Kevin McHale. The Houston Rockets, on the other hand, were a young and hungry team, led by players like Moses Malone, Calvin Murphy, and Mike Dunleavy.
As the game gets underway, the episode provides a detailed play-by-play of the action, with in-game commentary from some of the sport's most notable figures. Viewers get a sense of the intensity of the game and the fierce competition between the two teams. The Celtics get off to a strong start, with Larry Bird scoring 11 points in the first quarter and helping his team to a 30-25 lead.
However, the Rockets fight back in the second quarter, with Moses Malone dominating inside and Calvin Murphy hitting several key shots from outside. The two teams trade baskets back and forth, with neither able to gain a significant advantage. By halftime, the score is tied at 56-56.
The second half of the game sees both teams ramp up the pressure, with the intensity ramping up even further. The Celtics turn up the defensive pressure, with players like Cedric Maxwell and Danny Ainge disrupting the Rockets' offense and forcing turnovers. However, the Rockets continue to fight back, with Mike Dunleavy hitting several key shots to keep his team in the game.
As the fourth quarter begins, the game is still up for grabs, with the score tied at 89-89. Both teams continue to battle back and forth, with neither able to gain a significant advantage. With just seconds remaining, Larry Bird steps up and hits a clutch shot to give the Celtics a 98-95 lead. The Rockets have one last chance to tie the game, but Calvin Murphy's three-pointer misses the mark, and the Celtics hold on for the victory.
The episode concludes with post-game analysis and interviews with some of the key players from both teams. Viewers get a sense of the emotional toll of the game, with players from both teams expressing disappointment over the loss or relief at the victory. The episode ends with a teaser for the next game in the series, leaving viewers eager to see what will happen next.
Overall, the 1981 NBA Finals Game 1 is a thrilling episode of the NBA show, providing an in-depth look at one of the most memorable games in NBA history. With detailed play-by-play commentary, interviews with key players, and expert analysis, this episode is a must-watch for any basketball fan.