The NBA Finals is set to restore a beloved tradition as the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to face the Indiana Pacers in Game 5. After more than ten years, the broadcast will feature the starting lineup introductions live, a ritual last seen during the 2013 Finals between the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs. This revival highlights Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s role in rekindling excitement for this time-honored NBA Finals custom.
This return comes at a time when the Finals have faced criticism over presentation changes aimed at maximizing advertising, which some believe have diminished the event’s ceremonial appeal. With Finals viewership at historic lows, the NBA is seeking ways to reengage fans and restore the grandeur that once defined the championship series.
The Need for Greater Ceremony in the Finals
Commentators and fans alike have noticed a decline in the atmosphere surrounding the Finals, with the event feeling more routine than monumental. Media figure Bomani Jones has expressed his thoughts, noting that recent Finals presentations have failed to capture the significance they deserve. He said,
“The NBA Finals presentation has just felt like games as opposed to something that is a really big deal… Play up the pageantry.”
—Bomani Jones, Media Personality
This sentiment echoes a wider desire among the audience for a more dramatic and emotional build-up to the games, reminding viewers that the Finals should be a showcase of basketball’s highest stakes and most electrifying moments.
Reigniting the Emotional Bond Between Players and Fans
The reintroduction of starting lineup introductions serves as more than just a nod to nostalgia; it offers a powerful way to strengthen the bond between players and spectators. In previous Finals, stars like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh captivated audiences with their visible intensity and focus during pregame ceremonies. These moments allowed fans an intimate view into the athletes’ mindset before tipping off and deepened the emotional investment in the championship games.
By bringing back this tradition, the NBA creates a bridge that connects current players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates, with the passionate fan base, enhancing the overall Finals experience while honoring the sport’s history.
What This Revival Means for the Future of the NBA Finals
The decision to restore starting lineup introductions may signal a broader strategic shift for the league’s marquee events. Prioritizing emotional engagement and ceremonial elements within the Finals could elevate the significance of the series and help reverse declining ratings. Such moves suggest that the NBA recognizes the value of tradition in maintaining a loyal fanbase and enriching the spectacle of pro basketball’s biggest stage.
As the Thunder and the Pacers step on the court, the revival adds layers of history and excitement that remind everyone involved that the NBA Finals are more than just a sequence of games—they represent a vibrant celebration of basketball’s essence and the perseverance of its stars.