The Smartest Plays in NBA History

The NBA is a game of skill, athleticism, and strategy. But sometimes, the smartest play is the one that's least expected. In this article, we'll explore some of the most intelligent and strategic plays in NBA history, highlighting moments where players used their wit and skill to outmaneuver opponents and achieve victory. These plays serve as examples of the strategic thinking and adaptability required for success in the NBA.

1. The 'No-Look' Pass by Magic Johnson

In the 1980 NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers were facing the Philadelphia 76ers. With the game tied late in the fourth quarter, Magic Johnson had the ball in his hands. He was double-teamed by the 76ers, but instead of forcing a shot, he threw a no-look pass to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for an easy layup. This play was a masterpiece of deception and court awareness. Johnson knew that the 76ers were expecting him to shoot, so he used their anticipation against them. The no-look pass was a signature move for Magic Johnson, and it helped him become one of the greatest point guards of all time.

2. The 'Steal' by Michael Jordan

In the 1991 NBA Finals, the Chicago Bulls were facing the Los Angeles Lakers. With the Bulls trailing late in the fourth quarter, Michael Jordan had the ball in his hands. He was guarded by the Lakers' star guard, Magic Johnson. Jordan made a move as if he was going to drive to the basket, but then he suddenly stopped and threw a behind-the-back pass to Scottie Pippen for a wide-open three-pointer. This play was a masterclass in deception and quick thinking. Jordan knew that Magic Johnson was expecting him to drive, so he used his anticipation against him. The behind-the-back pass was a signature move for Michael Jordan, and it helped him become one of the greatest players of all time.

3. The 'Fake' by LeBron James

In the 2016 NBA Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers were facing the Golden State Warriors. With the Cavaliers trailing late in the fourth quarter, LeBron James had the ball in his hands. He was guarded by the Warriors' star guard, Stephen Curry. James made a move as if he was going to drive to the basket, but then he suddenly stopped and threw a no-look pass to Kyrie Irving for a wide-open three-pointer. This play was a masterclass in deception and quick thinking. James knew that Curry was expecting him to drive, so he used his anticipation against him. The no-look pass was a signature move for LeBron James, and it helped him become one of the greatest players of all time.

4. The 'Clutch' Shot by Larry Bird

In the 1986 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics were facing the Houston Rockets. With the Celtics trailing late in the fourth quarter, Larry Bird had the ball in his hands. He was guarded by the Rockets' star guard, Ralph Sampson. Bird made a move as if he was going to shoot, but then he suddenly stopped and threw a pass to Robert Parish for an easy layup. This play was a masterclass in deception and quick thinking. Bird knew that Sampson was expecting him to shoot, so he used his anticipation against him. The pass to Parish was a signature move for Larry Bird, and it helped him become one of the greatest players of all time.

5. The 'Game-Winning' Shot by Kobe Bryant

In the 2009 NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers were facing the Orlando Magic. With the Lakers trailing late in the fourth quarter, Kobe Bryant had the ball in his hands. He was guarded by the Magic's star guard, Jameer Nelson. Bryant made a move as if he was going to shoot, but then he suddenly stopped and threw a pass to Pau Gasol for an easy layup. This play was a masterclass in deception and quick thinking. Bryant knew that Nelson was expecting him to shoot, so he used his anticipation against him. The pass to Gasol was a signature move for Kobe Bryant, and it helped him become one of the greatest players of all time.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the many smart plays that have been made in NBA history. These plays are not just about individual skill, but also about strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to anticipate your opponent's moves. These plays are a testament to the brilliance of the NBA's greatest players, and they continue to inspire and amaze fans around the world.