In June 2026, Jalen Brunson led the New York Knicks past the Spurs 4-1 to win their first championship in 53 years, earning unanimous Finals MVP at 32.6 PPG.
In 2023-24, Jaylen Brown and Tatum led Boston to a 4-1 Finals win over Dallas for the franchise’s 18th title—passing the Lakers alone atop NBA history—with Brown earning his first Finals MVP.
In the 2023 Finals, Nikola Jokić averaged 30.2 PPG, 14.0 RPG and 7.2 APG to lead the Nuggets past the Heat 4-1 for their first title and his first FMVP.
In 2014-15, Andre Iguodala was inserted into the starting lineup to guard LeBron; Golden State beat Cleveland 4-2 for its first title in 40 years, and Iguodala surprisingly won Finals MVP.
In 1988-89 the Detroit Pistons swept the Lakers 4-0. Joe Dumars hounded Magic Johnson on defense and was named Finals MVP, launching the Bad Boys' championship era.
From the 2007 No. 2 pick to two Warriors titles and FMVPs, Kevin Durant wrote the 'Reaper' legend with a mid-range jumper, full of controversy and glory.
In 2010 the Lakers beat Boston 4-3 (Game 7, 83-79); Kobe’s fifth ring repaid the 2008 loss.
Gasol shot 60%, yet the FMVP went to Kobe—because his gravity created those open looks. “Can’t-win-without-you.”
The 2009 crown opened the post-Jordan era—a perimeter core could build a dynasty, foreshadowing small-ball.
The 2009 Kobe learned to “fold”—7.4 assists and an All-Defensive nod made him a two-way system core.
The 2002 crown was earned by obsession and work, not luck—the never-quit mindset voters honored with the MVP.
Shaq’s 2002 game—three straight Finals MVPs, a paint throne no one could challenge.