Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals - Cleveland Cavaliers vs Golden State Warriors

Introduction

• Location: Oakland, California
• Series status: Golden State Warriors had a 3-1 lead, now tied 3-3.
• Stakes: Cavaliers are looking to end a long championship drought; Warriors defending their championship title.

Starting Lineups Changes

• Warriors: Festus Ezeli starts as Andrew Bogut is out with a knee injury.
• Cavaliers: Same starters; momentum after winning Games 5 and 6.

First Quarter Highlights

• Draymond Green starts defensively against LeBron James.
• Quick pace, intense atmosphere; both teams missing early shots.
• Important players: Draymond Green, LeBron James, Kyrie Irving.
• End of Q1: Cavaliers lead by 1.

Second Quarter Highlights

• Cavaliers' aggressive rebounding, especially by Kevin Love.
• Draymond Green's strong performance continues; hitting multiple threes.
• Lead changes frequently; both teams struggle with turnovers.
• Halftime: Warriors lead by 1, Green has 22 points, LeBron has near triple-double stats.

Third Quarter Highlights

• JR Smith starts strong for Cavaliers with consecutive threes.
• Kyrie Irving's offensive surge; key in Cavaliers' comeback.
• Warriors struggle with defensive matchups; Ezeli on Irving.
• Cleveland's defense tightens, goes on an 11-0 run.
• End of Q3: Warriors lead by 1; Draymond Green with 32 points.

Fourth Quarter Highlights

• The game remains close, tied several times.
• Draymond Green continues to shine, leading Warriors’ offense.
• Kyrie Irving and LeBron James drive Cavaliers' playmaking.
• Key defensive plays by both teams, notable block by LeBron James.
• Kyrie Irving hits a crucial three-pointer to give Cavs a lead.

Final Minutes

• Intense back and forth; both teams push hard for the win.
• Critical free throws by LeBron James extend lead.
• Warriors struggle to tie; Cavaliers’ defense holds strong.
• Final score: Cavaliers win and become NBA Champions.

Post-Game Celebrations

• LeBron James fulfills promise to bring a championship to Cleveland.
• Emotional moment for Cavaliers and fans; end of 52-year title drought.
• LeBron named Finals MVP.

Key Takeaways

• LeBron James achieves a triple-double, pivotal in victory.
• Draymond Green's exceptional performance, though not enough for Warriors.
• Cavaliers' resilience in overcoming a 3-1 series deficit.
• Historic win for Cleveland, symbolizing hope and fulfillment for fans.