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The 2000 NBA Finals: Reggie Miller’s Last Stand vs the Lakers’ Rising Empire

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Table of Contents

Eastern Underdogs vs Western Juggernaut

The nbaFinals-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>2000 NBA Finals presented basketball's ultimate contrast: small-market Indiana's veteran-led teamwork against Los Angeles' explosive superstar duo. This clash would both cement legends and launch a dynasty.

Pacers' Historic Journey

Regular Season Transformation

After moving to Conseco Fieldhouse, the Pacers overcame early struggles to set franchise records. Reggie Miller's leadership combined with Jalen Rose's Breakout Season (18.2 PPG) created a potent 56-win combination.

The 2000 NBA Finals: Reggie Miller,the Pacers,and the Lakers’ Dynasty Dawn

Playoff Battles

Indiana survived three grueling series: - First Round: Travis Best's iconic buzzer-beater against Milwaukee - Conference Semis: Defeating MVP Allen Iverson's 76ers - ECF: Conquering Patrick Ewing's Kicks in six games

Lakers' Championship Formula

Phil Jackson's first LA season unlocked basketball's most dominant force: - Shaquille O'Neal: 29.7 PPG/13.6 RPG regular season - Kobe Bryant: Emerging as elite two-way Guard - Supporting Cast: Veterans like Ron Harper and Robert Horry

Finals Showdown: Key Moments

Game 1: Shaq's Dominance (104-87 LA)

The Diesel set the tone with 43 points and 19 rebounds, overwhelming Rik Smits and the Pacers' frontcourt.

Game 3: Miller Time Arrives (100-91 IND)

Reggie erupted for 33 points, including 14 fourth-quarter points, proving he could thrive on basketball's biggest stage.

Game 4 OT Classic (120-118 LA)

With Shaq fouled out, 21-year-old Kobe scored 8 clutch OT points, including the series-defining reverse layup with 5.9 seconds left.

Legacy of the Series

Lakers Dynasty Launched

The championship began a three-peat era, with Shaq's 38.0 PPG/16.7 RPG Finals performance remaining one of basketball's most dominant displays.

Miller's Bittersweet Peak

The Pacers legend averaged 24.3 PPG but never returned to the Finals. His 35-point Game 4 effort stands as one of the great unrealized championship performances.

Tactical Innovations

Larry Bird's use of Dutch center Rik Smits against Shaq (24 points in Game 4) previewed modern spacing strategies, while Phil Jackson's triangle offense maximized LA's talents.

By the Numbers

- 4.2: Average scoring margin across six games
- 83%: Lakers' free throw accuracy in closeout Game 6
- 12: Consecutive Finals games Shaq would win from 2000-2002

Lasting Impact

This series marked the NBA's transition into the superstar era while showcasing small-market teams' championship potential. The Pacers' subsequent playoff disappointments and 2004 Malice at the Palace incident make their 2000 run both triumphant and tragic.