The Greatest Game 1 NBA Finals performances of the 21st century

The Los Angeles Lakers were going for their first championship of what became their famous three-peat from 2000-2002. At this point, having won that 1999-2000 season MVP, Shaquille O’Neal was the best basketball player on the planet. He abused the Indiana Pacers with his post moves, footwork, little corner jumpers, and of course, his two-handed dunks. In what became a 104-87 victory, he finished with 43 points, 19 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks while shooting 21-for-31 from the field. He only made one of six free throw attempts, but who cares? The Lakers went on to win the Championship in six games.

O’Neal also had a 36-point, 16-rebound Finals Game 1 two years later, against the New Jersey Nets, whom the Lakers swept.