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Best clutch moments in NBA history

Discover and rank the most unforgettable, game-winning plays and critical shots in basketball history. This list features legendary performances, buzzer-beaters, and pivotal defensive stops by iconic players in high-stakes NBA playoff games and Finals, perfect for fans searching for the greatest clutch plays and moments.

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  1. 1

    Ray Allen's Corner Three (2013 NBA Finals, Game 6)

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    • Tied the game to force overtime

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    This shot is celebrated for its improbable nature and its pivotal role in saving the Miami Heat's championship hopes. It led to one of the most dramatic finishes in Finals history, forcing overtime and ultimately a Game 7 victory.

  2. 2

    Tyrese Haliburton's Game-Winning Shot (2025 NBA Finals)

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    • Clutch play

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    This recent clutch moment from the 2025 NBA Finals showcases Tyrese Haliburton's ability to perform under immense pressure. His game-winning shot secured a dramatic comeback victory for the Pacers, highlighting his rising star status and clutch gene on the biggest stage.

  3. 3

    Michael Jordan's "The Shot" (1989 Eastern Conference First Round, Game 5)

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    • Legendary moment in NBA history

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    This iconic moment is frequently cited as one of Michael Jordan's defining clutch plays, sealing a playoff series with a buzzer-beater. His triumphant arm pump after the shot remains one of the most memorable celebrations in NBA history.

  4. 4

    Michael Jordan's "Last Shot" (1998 NBA Finals, Game 6)

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    • Hit a last-second jumper to win sixth championship

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    This is arguably the most iconic clutch shot in NBA Finals history, sealing Jordan's second three-peat and his final championship with the Bulls. It's a defining moment of his legendary career, showcasing his ability to deliver under immense pressure.

  5. 5

    Kyrie Irving's three-pointer in Game 5 of the 2016 Finals

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    • Buried a clutch 3-pointer over Stephen Curry

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    This shot is considered one of the biggest in NBA history due to its significance in a Game 7 of the Finals. It completed an unprecedented 3-1 comeback against a dominant Warriors team, cementing Irving's place in clutch lore.

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  7. 6

    Kawhi Leonard's Game 7 Buzzer-Beater (2019 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Game 7)

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    • Delivered the first-ever Game 7 buzzer-beater

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    This shot is memorable for its incredible suspense and the unique way it bounced on the rim four times before falling in. It's a truly unforgettable playoff moment that sent the Raptors to the Eastern Conference Finals.

  8. 7

    Damian Lillard's Series-Ending Three over Paul George (2019 Western Conference First Round, Game 5)

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    • Cold-blooded 37-footer over Paul George

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    This shot solidified 'Dame Time' as a phenomenon and is one of the most audacious and iconic series-clinching shots in recent memory. Lillard's confidence to pull up from near mid-court makes it an unforgettable clutch play.

  9. 8

    Derek Fisher's 0.4 Second Shot (2004 Western Conference Semifinals, Game 5)

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    • Secured a one-point win with a buzzer-beater

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    This shot is famous for the incredibly short amount of time left on the clock, making it one of the most improbable game-winners in playoff history. It demonstrated quick thinking and execution under extreme pressure.

  10. 9

    Magic Johnson's "Baby Hook" (1987 NBA Finals, Game 4)

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    • Led Lakers to victory in Game 4

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    This shot is a classic example of Magic Johnson's clutch playmaking and his ability to deliver in the biggest moments against his fiercest rivals, the Boston Celtics. It's a testament to his unique skill set and composure.

  11. 10

    John Stockton's Conference Finals Buzzer-Beater (1997 Western Conference Finals, Game 6)

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    • Hit a dramatic three-pointer at the buzzer

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    This shot is a defining moment for the Utah Jazz franchise, sending them to their first-ever NBA Finals. It's a testament to John Stockton's quiet but deadly clutch ability, showcasing his impact in a critical playoff moment.

  12. 11

    Robert Horry's Game 4 Three-Pointer (2002 Western Conference Finals, Game 4)

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    • Lived up to the "Big Shot Bob" nickname

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    Big Shot Bob' lived up to his nickname with this improbable game-winner, a crucial moment in a highly contested playoff series. The chaotic sequence leading up to the shot adds to its legendary status.

  13. 12

    LeBron James' Game 2 Buzzer-Beater (2018 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Game 3)

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    • Iconic buzzer-beater against Toronto Raptors

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    This was one of several iconic playoff buzzer-beaters by LeBron James, showcasing his dominance in the Eastern Conference. It highlights his ability to consistently deliver game-winning plays in high-stakes playoff matchups.

  14. 13

    Reggie Miller: 8 points in 9 seconds (NBA 1995)

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    • Scored 8 points in 8.9 seconds

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    This is a classic example of a single player completely taking over a game in the clutch, forever cementing Reggie Miller's rivalry with the Knicks. His scoring outburst is one of the most improbable comebacks in NBA history.

  15. 14

    Steve Kerr's Game 6 Jumper (1997 NBA Finals, Game 6)

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    • Hit a clutch 17-foot jumper

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    This moment highlights the trust Michael Jordan had in his teammates and Steve Kerr's ability to deliver under pressure on the biggest stage. It was a crucial shot that secured the Bulls' fifth championship.