The Worst Teams to Ever Win the NBA Championship: Unlikely Champions
When it comes to the NBA Championship, the typical narrative involves superstars, dominant victories, and championship-worthy regular-season records. But in the annals of basketball history, several teams have achieved greatness under highly unconventional circumstances.
Demystifying the Unlikely Champions
The quest to determine the worst teams to ever win the NBA Championship is an intriguing one. Here, we explore some of the most surprising teams that managed to secure titles, using the years from 1955 through 1998 as our primary focus.
1968-69 Boston Celtics
Despite featuring legends like Bill Russell, K.C. Jones, and Sam Jones, the 1968-69 Boston Celtics struggled during the regular season with a fair record of 48-35 (58.5 winning percentage). They ranked fourth in their division, behind the Baltimore Bullets, who had a stellar record of 57-25.
However, the Celtics' journey to the championship was anything but easy. They had to navigate through tough playoff matchups and memorable games, including a dramatic seven-game series against the dominant Los Angeles Lakers, who boasted the formidable duo of Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, under the guidance of the eccentric coach Bill van Breda Kolff. Russell's leadership, combined with strong contributions from Havlicek and Sam Jones, led the Celtics to the title despite their regular-season struggles.
1976-77 Portland Trail Blazers
Another surprising team that won the championship was the 1976-77 Portland Trail Blazers. This team finished the regular season with a 49-33 record and is often considered a surprise champion. They overcame a lack of superstar players and tough competition to secure their title.
1977-78 Washington Bullets
The Washington Bullets, now known as the Wizards, had a similar journey to the title in the 1977-78 season. They won their first and only championship, defeating the heavily favored Philadelphia 76ers and the Seattle SuperSonics in the playoffs. Their regular-season record was mediocre at 44-38 (53.7 winning percentage), and their guard position was weak. Nevertheless, they pulled off a remarkable feat by making it to the finals the following year, where they lost to the Seattle SuperSonics.
1994-95 Houston Rockets
Another team that fits this labeling is the 1994-95 Houston Rockets. They finished the season with a 47-35 record and as the sixth seed in the Western Conference, they had to prove themselves in the playoffs. Their regular season was rocky, and they overcame tough opponents to secure their unexpected title.
2004 Detroit Pistons vs. 2011 Dallas Mavericks
Two more teams that significantly impacted the debate are the 2004 Detroit Pistons and the 2011 Dallas Mavericks. The Pistons, led by Allen Iverson, defeated the dominant Los Angeles Lakers 4-1 in the 2004 NBA Finals, demonstrating resilience and team play. Similarly, the Mavericks, led by Dirk Nowitzki, overcame the super team of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh in the 2011 NBA Finals to clinch their championship, again showcasing an unlikely path to glory.
While these teams may not have had the overwhelming talent that typically defines champions, their stories of triumph are marked by their underdog status and the determination of their players. Their journeys to the championship are a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NBA season and the resilience of the human spirit.