Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan

The 10 Greatest NBA Finals MVPs of All Time

June 9, 2025 Oliver Obel

When the pressure peaks and the spotlight shines brightest, a select group of players manage to elevate their game and carry their teams to glory. The NBA Finals MVP award honors those who perform at the highest level when it matters most. Here are ten players whose Finals performances etched their names into basketball history.

10. Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant captured the Finals MVP in 2009 and 2010 after previously playing second fiddle during the Lakers’ early-2000s championship run. His most satisfying title came in 2010, when he led Los Angeles past Boston in a grueling seven-game series, including a decisive 10-point fourth quarter and 15 rebounds in Game 7.

9. Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon delivered back-to-back Finals MVP performances in 1994 and 1995. He outperformed fellow elite centers like Patrick Ewing and a young Shaquille O’Neal, leading the Rockets to two straight titles and averaging over 30 points and 10 rebounds during those playoff runs.

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8. Larry Bird

Larry Bird earned his Finals MVPs in 1984 and 1986 by combining scoring, rebounding, and playmaking at the highest level. His standout moment came in 1986, when he recorded a triple-double in Game 6 to clinch the title against Houston, capping a run many consider among the best ever by a team.

7. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Finals MVPs came 14 years apart, showcasing both his consistency and impact. In 1971, he led Milwaukee to a clean sweep of the Bullets, and in 1985, he powered the Lakers past Boston while averaging over 25 points and 9 rebounds at the age of 38.

6. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard won Finals MVP with two different teams, showcasing his ability to shine in different systems. In 2014, he was the breakout star for the Spurs against Miami, and in 2019, he led Toronto to its first-ever title, defeating a heavily favored Golden State squad.

5. Tim Duncan

Tim Duncan collected three Finals MVPs in 1999, 2003, and 2005 as the anchor of San Antonio’s dynasty. Known for his calm presence and complete game, he nearly recorded a quadruple-double to close out the 2003 Finals and was consistently the most reliable force on the floor.

4. Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson’s Finals MVP performances in 1980, 1982, and 1987 reflected his versatility and leadership. He won his first as a rookie while filling in at center, and in 1987, he hit the game-winning shot over two defenders to help secure a key victory against Boston.

3. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal’s three consecutive Finals MVPs from 2000 to 2002 marked one of the most dominant stretches in NBA history. His 38 points per game in the 2000 Finals against Indiana set the tone, and his presence dictated the Lakers’ entire offensive game plan during their three-peat.

2. LeBron James

LeBron James earned four Finals MVPs in 2012, 2013, 2016, and 2020, each marking a different chapter of his storied career. From winning with the Miami Heat, to leading Cleveland to its first title, to triumphing in the bubble with the Lakers, he delivered elite performances across nearly a decade.

1. Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan’s six Finals MVPs—earned during two three-peats—stand as the gold standard of playoff excellence. With unmatched intensity and clutch scoring, he never lost in the Finals and was always the driving force behind the Bulls’ title wins, sealing his place at the top of this list.