The Golden State Warriors built one of the most impressive dynasties in NBA history, capturing four titles since 2015 and establishing themselves as a dominant force. Despite their success, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James recognized that the 2016 Warriors were the better team, but credited the Cleveland Cavaliers’ mindset for driving an unforgettable comeback in the NBA Finals that year.
The Warriors, led by stars Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson under coach Steve Kerr, looked poised to secure the championship after gaining a 3-1 series lead on their home court at Oracle Arena. Having faced the Cavaliers the previous year in the Finals, the two teams were well acquainted, fueling the intensity of the rematch. Many expected Golden State to close out the series without much trouble.
The Turning Point: Game 5 Energized the Cavaliers’ Belief
As the series shifted back to Cleveland, James and Kyrie Irving each delivered 41 points in a convincing 112-97 victory during Game 5, sparking hope for their team. Following that win, James acknowledged a crucial change in the Cavaliers’ attitude that propelled their comeback.
Once what happened in Game 5 happened, my guys believed that what I was saying was [expletive] coming true, Y’all get me back to Game 6, we’ll come back here for Game 7. It was like nothing is stopping us. … They were the better team. We hit a momentum pop and there’s nothing they could do about it.
—LeBron James, NBA Forward
This mindset shift energized the Cavs, enabling them to overcome the odds and take the series to a decisive Game 7. The Warriors, despite being viewed as the stronger team throughout the season, could not halt the Cavaliers’ surge fueled by confidence and determination.
The Aftermath and Renewed Rivalry in Subsequent Finals
Golden State fans know how the 2016 Finals concluded, with Cleveland completing one of the greatest comebacks in NBA history by winning the series 4-3. The rivalry between the Warriors and Cavaliers continued as they met in the next two NBA Finals, with Golden State signing Kevin Durant in the offseason to further strengthen their roster. Durant’s addition helped the Warriors secure back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2018, reasserting their dominance over Cleveland.
LeBron James’ reflections reveal not only the respect he holds for that dominant Warriors squad but also the significance of unwavering belief and resilience in changing the outcome of a series. This historic comeback remains a defining moment in NBA history, symbolizing how mindset can rival talent in the quest for victory.