“It’s about damn time!” LeBron James uttered when asked what were his first thoughts when the clocked finally read all zeros and he could finally call himself an NBA Champion.
Thursday night the Miami Heat defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 121-106 to capture the 2012 NBA title in five games. It marked the first title for LeBron James and the first for the Heat since assembling arguably the greatest contingent of talent in NBA history two years ago.
James, who was also named the MVP of the Finals, had 26 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists in a very Michael Jordan like performance throughout the NBA Finals.
The big three, who promised multiple championships upon their arrival sat on the bench in the final minutes of the game celebrating what was soon to be theirs. Chris Bosh who left the floor in tears last season after Miami’s heartbreaking loss to Dallas had 24 points while Dwyane Wade added 20 points.
In addition to the big three scoring in double figures, the Heat also got a huge boost from Mike Miller who made seven 3-pointers and scored 23 points.
But the night certainly revolved around LeBron who finally had his coronation with the victory. The loss to Dallas last season is now just an afterthought while The Decision and the way in which he left Cleveland (something he wishes he could’ve done differently) seem like it’s becoming an afterthought as well.
For the Thunder, this year’s finals simply could’ve been that old notion that you must learn how to walk before you can run.
Kevin Durant had 32 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists on a Oklahoma City team who is just three years removed from starting a season 3-29. But with Durant, Russell Westbrook, Serge Ibaka and James Harden all 23 or younger, the Thunder have the pieces in place to be an absolute force in the Western Conference for many years to come.
This is nothing more than a learning experience.
The Heat too though have plenty to look forward too in the seasons to come. James after all promised multiple championships and players should be anxious to get on board for that chance.
Ref: Associated Press
