Every NBA Finals MVP's Combined Stats Over The Last 40 Seasons

NBA superstars such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant have won multiple Finals MVP awards while posting incredible statistics over their championship performances. We will combine the stats of every NBA Finals MVP over the last 40 years, starting with Larry Bird in 1983-84 and ending with Nikola Jokic in 2022-23.

1983-84 - Larry Bird - 48.2 Score

Stats: 27.4 PPG, 14.0 RPG, 3.6 APG, 2.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Larry Bird was a dominant force in the 1980s, and his performances in the 1983-84 and 1985-86 NBA Finals were no exception. In the 1983-84 season, Bird led the Boston Celtics to victory with an impressive score of 48.2, averaging 27.4 points, 14.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game. His versatility and all-around play were crucial to the Celtics' success during the year as he also won his first regular-season MVP.

1984-85 - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar - 42.4 Score

Stats: 25.7 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one of the greatest centers of all time, displayed his dominance in the 1984-85 NBA Finals, leading the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 42.4. He averaged 25.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Kareem's skyhook and leadership were instrumental in the Lakers' success that season.

1985-86 - Larry Bird - 46.2 Score

Stats: 24.0 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 9.5 APG, 2.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

In 1985-86, Bird's score was 46.2, despite a slight drop in points and rebounds, he showcased his playmaking abilities by averaging 9.5 assists per game, a testament to his basketball IQ and team-oriented style of play. Even if his total stats score was less than that in the 1983-84 season, Bird was still dominant as he posted a near triple-double and was a menace defensively when it came to picking his opponent’s pockets.

1986-87 - Magic Johnson - 49.8 Score

Stats: 26.2 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 13.0 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Magic Johnson's 1986-87 NBA Finals performance was nothing short of spectacular. With a score of 49.8, Magic showcased his unparalleled playmaking ability by averaging an astonishing 13.0 assists per game. He also contributed 26.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.3 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. Magic's leadership and floor vision were crucial in leading the Lakers to another championship.

1987-88 - James Worthy - 35.1 Score

Stats: 22.0 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG

In the 1987-88 NBA Finals, James Worthy emerged as a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, earning a score of 35.1. He averaged 22.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game. Worthy's ability to score in crucial moments earned him the Finals MVP award, highlighting his importance to the Lakers' championship run.

1988-89 - Joe Dumars - 35.9 Score

Stats: 27.3 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 6.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Joe Dumars was instrumental in the Detroit Pistons' 1988-89 NBA Finals victory with a score of 35.9. He averaged 27.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. Dumars' exceptional scoring and defensive skills were key factors in the Pistons' success and earned him the Finals MVP award ahead of Isiah Thomas.

1989-90 - Isiah Thomas - 41.8 Score

Stats: 27.6 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 7.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Isiah Thomas led the Detroit Pistons to victory in the 1989-90 NBA Finals with a score of 41.8. He averaged 27.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. Thomas' leadership, scoring, and playmaking were crucial in securing the Pistons' second consecutive championship. It was time that the leader of the “Bad Boys” earned the most impressive individual award of his Hall of Fame career.

1990-91 - Michael Jordan - 53.4 Score

Stats: 31.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 11.4 APG, 2.8 SPG, 1.4 BPG

In the 1990-91 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan delivered a legendary performance, earning a score of 53.4. A particularly fascinating aspect of Jordan's performance was his all-around play, as he not only led the series in scoring with 31.2 points per game but also showcased his playmaking abilities by averaging an astonishing 11.4 assists per game. With one championship on his resume, Jordan was not quite done.

1991-92 - Michael Jordan - 49.1 Score

Stats: 35.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 6.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

In the 1991-92 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan continued to display his scoring prowess, earning a score of 49.1. What stands out as particularly remarkable in this series was Jordan's incredible scoring average of 35.8 points per game, showcasing his ability to take over games offensively. His extraordinary scoring ability and overall impact on the game earned him the Finals MVP award for the second year in a row, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

1992-93 - Michael Jordan - 58.2 Score

Stats: 41.0 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

In the 1992-93 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan delivered one of the most dominant scoring performances in Finals history, earning an astonishing score of 58.2. Jordan's scoring was simply otherworldly, averaging a remarkable 41.0 points per game, showcasing his ability to consistently put up points and take over games at will. A fascinating aspect of this series was Jordan's increased rebounding and playmaking contributions, averaging 8.5 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game.

1993-94 - Hakeem Olajuwon - 45.1 Score

Stats: 26.9 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, 3.9 BPG

Hakeem Olajuwon's back-to-back NBA Finals performances in 1993-94 and 1994-95 were exceptional. In 1993-94, he earned a score of 45.1, averaging 26.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.6 steals, and 3.9 blocks per game. Olajuwon's scoring, defense, and shot-blocking ability were instrumental in leading the Houston Rockets to their first championship.

1994-95 - Hakeem Olajuwon - 53.8 Score

Stats: 32.8 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 5.5 APG, 2.0 SPG, 2.0 BPG

Olajuwon followed this up with a score of 53.8 in 1994-95, showcasing his dominance with averages of 32.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 2.0 steals, and 2.0 blocks per game. Hakeem took advantage of Michael Jordan’s absence in the NBA due to retirement and he was by far the best player in the world for two straight seasons. Amazingly, Olajuwon outplayed Shaquille O’Neal in the 1995 Finals and that was no easy task.

1995-96 - Michael Jordan - 38.7 Score

Stats: 27.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG

In the 1995-96 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan returned to the championship stage after a brief retirement, displaying his unmatched skill and competitiveness, earning a score of 38.7. While his scoring average of 27.3 points per game was slightly lower compared to his previous Finals appearances, Jordan's ability to impact the game remained undiminished. Jordan's return to the NBA and immediate success on the biggest stage further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest and most influential players in NBA history.

1996-97 - Michael Jordan - 47.3 Score

Stats: 32.3 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.8 BPG

In the 1996-97 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan continued his reign of dominance, earning an impressive score of 47.3. Jordan's scoring was once again at the forefront, averaging 32.3 points per game, showcasing his ability to produce consistently at an elite level. By now, there was no denying who the greatest player ever is, but somehow, he did the unthinkable by completing his second-straight three-peat.

1997-98 - Michael Jordan - 42.3 Score

Stats: 33.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Michael Jordan showcased his unmatched scoring ability, earning a score of 42.3. Jordan's scoring was truly spectacular, averaging 33.5 points per game, demonstrating his ability to take over games and deliver in clutch situations. A notable aspect of this series was Jordan's defensive impact, as he averaged 1.8 steals and 0.7 blocks per game, highlighting his ability to disrupt opponents and make crucial defensive plays. His exceptional performance throughout the series was instrumental in leading the Chicago Bulls to their sixth NBA Championship and securing their second three-peat.

1998-99 - Tim Duncan - 46.0 Score

Stats: 27.4 PPG, 14.0 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 2.2 BPG

Tim Duncan's NBA Finals performance in the lockout-shortened 1998-99 season was outstanding. He earned a score of 46.0, averaging 27.4 points, 14.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.2 blocks per game. Duncan's scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking were crucial in leading the San Antonio Spurs to their first championship and earned him the Finals MVP award. This would mark the start of a Spurs dynasty that would last until the late 2010s.

1999-00 - Shaquille O'Neal - 60.7 Score

Stats: 38.0 PPG, 16.7 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 2.7 BPG

In the 1999-00 NBA Finals, Shaquille O'Neal delivered a dominant performance, earning an unparalleled score of 60.7. He averaged a staggering 38.0 points, 16.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.7 blocks per game. Shaq's overwhelming presence in the paint, combined with his scoring efficiency, was instrumental in leading the Los Angeles Lakers to victory and securing the NBA Championship.

2000-01 - Shaquille O'Neal - 57.4 Score

Stats: 33.0 PPG, 15.8 RPG, 4.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 3.4 BPG

O'Neal continued his dominant play, earning a remarkable score of 57.4 as he led the Los Angeles Lakers to their second consecutive NBA Championship at the expense of the Philadelphia 76ers led by MVP Allen Iverson. His outstanding performance throughout the series earned him the Finals MVP award for the second year in a row despite having Kobe Bryant beside him.

2001-02 - Shaquille O'Neal - 56.0 Score

Stats: 36.3 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.8 BPG

In the 2001-02 NBA Finals, Shaquille O'Neal averaged 36.3 points, 12.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 2.8 blocks per game against the New Jersey Nets who simply had no answer for the big man. Shaq's scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and defensive presence were instrumental in leading the Los Angeles Lakers to their third consecutive NBA Championship although Kobe Bryant was getting fed up watching his own teammate win all the Finals MVP trophies.

2002-03 - Tim Duncan - 52.8 Score

Stats: 24.2 PPG, 17.0 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 5.3 BPG

Tim Duncan's NBA Finals performances in 2002-03 and 2004-05 showcased his versatility and dominance as a big man. In 2002-03, Duncan led the San Antonio Spurs to victory with a score of 52.8, averaging 24.2 points, 17.0 rebounds, and an incredible 5.3 blocks per game. His shot-blocking and rebounding were crucial in securing the Spurs' championship as he would earn his second Finals MVP trophy.

2003-04 - Chauncey Billups - 30.6 Score

Stats: 21.0 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 5.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.0 BPG

In the 2003-04 NBA Finals, Chauncey Billups was a key player for the Detroit Pistons, earning a score of 30.6. He averaged 21.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. Billups' scoring and playmaking were instrumental in leading the Pistons to victory and earning him the Finals MVP award. The fact that his score was a little over 30.0 shows that Billups was a critical player but not necessarily a superstar player which is why people wonder how the Lakers led by Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant lost.

2004-05 - Tim Duncan - 39.3 Score

Stats: 20.6 PPG, 14.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.4 SPG, 2.1 BPG

In 2004-05, Duncan earned a score of 39.3, posting averages of 20.6 points and 14.1 rebounds per game. Duncan's consistent and high-level play in the NBA Finals solidified his status as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history by now, although there were arguments already that he has to be number one with his third Finals MVP trophy on the resume.

2005-06 - Dwyane Wade - 50.0 Score

Stats: 34.7 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 3.8 APG, 2.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Dwyane Wade's performance in the 2005-06 NBA Finals was exceptional, earning him a score of 50.0. He averaged 34.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game. Wade's scoring ability and all-around play were crucial in leading the Miami Heat to their first championship as they came back from an 0-2 hole against the Dallas Mavericks led by eventual regular-season MVP winner Dirk Nowitzki.

2006-07 - Tony Parker - 33.6 Score

Stats: 24.5 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.0 BPG

In the 2006-07 NBA Finals, Tony Parker emerged as a key player for the San Antonio Spurs, earning a score of 33.6. He averaged 24.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 0.8 steals per game. Parker's scoring and playmaking were crucial in leading the Spurs to victory and earning him the Finals MVP award against LeBron James and the Cavaliers although he did have help from Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili.

2007-08 - Paul Pierce - 34.1 Score

Stats: 21.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Paul Pierce's performance in the 2007-08 NBA Finals was outstanding, earning him a score of 34.1. He averaged 21.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. Pierce's scoring and playmaking were crucial in leading the Boston Celtics to their 17th championship against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers. While Kevin Garnett had his impact, Pierce’s scoring was the difference in the series.

2008-09 - Kobe Bryant - 48.2 Score

Stats: 32.4 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Kobe Bryant's back-to-back NBA Finals performances in 2008-09 and 2009-10 showcased his scoring prowess and leadership. In 2008-09, Bryant led the Los Angeles Lakers to victory with a score of 48.2, averaging 32.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. Bryant finally won his first NBA championship without Shaquille O’Neal and posted a combined score of over 48.0 to make it happen.

2009-10 - Kobe Bryant - 43.3 Score

Stats: 28.6 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 3.9 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG

In 2009-10, Bryant continued his dominant play with a score of 43.3, posting averages of 28.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 2.1 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game against the Boston Celtics in an iconic seven-game series. Even if Game 7 was ugly in terms of offense, Bryant chipped in 24 points and 15 rebounds to secure the series and win his second straight Finals MVP award. The most important part of this trophy? Bryant had one more title than Shaquille O’Neal.

2010-11 - Dirk Nowitzki - 39.1 Score

Stats: 26.0 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

In the 2010-11 NBA Finals, Dirk Nowitzki led the Dallas Mavericks to victory with a score of 39.1. He averaged 26.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. Nowitzki's scoring and leadership were crucial in securing the Mavericks' first championship against the Miami Heat superteam led by LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

2011-12 - LeBron James - 48.2 Score

Stats: 28.6 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG

LeBron's all-around excellence was instrumental in leading the Miami Heat to victory and earning him his first NBA Championship and Finals MVP award. His scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities were on full display, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant and versatile players in NBA history because he finally got over the hump after a disastrous end to the season before.

2012-13 - LeBron James - 46.4 Score

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 7.0 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.9 BPG

LeBron's versatility, defensive prowess, and leadership were crucial in leading the Miami Heat to a second consecutive NBA Championship. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways was evident, earning him his second Finals MVP award and further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history. James needed Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to get there, but he would become a two-time champion and Finals MVP at the end of the year.

2013-14 - Kawhi Leonard - 28.0 Score

Stats: 17.8 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.2 BPG

In the 2013-14 NBA Finals, Kawhi Leonard emerged as a rising star, earning a score of 28.0 which is below 30.0 which is seen from the majority of players on the list. Leonard's impressive two-way play, especially his defensive contributions, were instrumental in the San Antonio Spurs' victory over the Miami Heat even if he had help from Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili.

2014-15 - Andre Iguodala - 27.7 Score

Stats: 16.3 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG

In the 2014-15 NBA Finals, Andre Iguodala emerged as a key player for the Golden State Warriors, earning a score of 27.7. He averaged 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. Iguodala's scoring, defense, and playmaking as a role player were instrumental in leading the Warriors to their first championship in 40 years because he might have done enough on LeBron James to prevent a Finals loss.

2015-16 - LeBron James - 54.8 Score

Stats: 29.7 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 8.9 APG, 2.6 SPG, 2.3 BPG

LeBron's all-around brilliance, especially his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, was crucial in leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first NBA Championship after overcoming a 3-1 deficit. His defensive impact was also significant, earning him the Finals MVP award for the third time in his career. LeBron's performance in this series further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever play the game.

2016-17 - Kevin Durant - 51.4 Score

Stats: 35.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.6 BPG

In his first season with the Warriors after leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency, Kevin Durant displayed his exceptional scoring ability and all-around skills, earning an outstanding score of 51.4. He averaged 35.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game. Durant's offensive dominance and defensive contributions were pivotal in leading the Golden State Warriors to victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a five-game series.

2017-18 - Kevin Durant - 50.2 Score

Stats: 28.8 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 7.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.3 BPG

In the 2017-18 NBA Finals, Kevin Durant continued to showcase his elite skills, earning a score of 50.2. His dominance offensively and also defensively (2.3 BPG) earned him the Finals MVP award for the second consecutive year. Durant's exceptional performance in this series further solidified his reputation as one of the NBA's premier players although there were still criticisms heading his way for joining a team that won 73 games in 2015-16.

2018-19 - Kawhi Leonard - 45.7 Score

Stats: 28.5 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 4.2 APG, 2.0 SPG, 1.2 BPG

In the 2018-19 NBA Finals, Kawhi Leonard demonstrated his exceptional two-way prowess, earning a score of 45.7. Leonard's scoring ability, defensive intensity, and overall leadership were crucial in leading the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA Championship in franchise history. His consistent and impactful performance throughout the series earned him the Finals MVP award and it was surprising to see the forward win a ring in his first and only season with the Raptors franchise.

2019-20 - LeBron James - 51.8 Score

Stats: 29.8 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG

In the Covid-shortened season, LeBron James managed to win his fourth championship and Finals MVP by generating a statistical score of 51.8. Even when playing alongside Anthony Davis, James was able to dominate the series against the banged-up Miami Heat in six games. With his fourth Finals MVP award, the GOAT talk began to start although there are still the majority who first look towards Michael Jordan.

2020-21 - Giannis Antetokounmpo - 56.4 Score

Stats: 35.2 PPG, 13.2 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.8 BPG

In the 2020-21 NBA Finals, Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to victory with a score of 56.4. He averaged 35.2 points, 13.2 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game. Giannis' scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking were crucial in securing the Bucks' first championship in 50 years and earned him the Finals MVP award. His iconic 50-point performance in Game 6 has to be the greatest moment in Bucks history.

2021-22 - Stephen Curry - 44.4 Score

Stats: 31.2 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

This championship might be the most important in Stephen Curry’s career because he won his first Finals MVP trophy and there were no more excuses this time. Curry’s first championship had injuries to Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love and his next two were due to Kevin Durant’s presence, but Curry’s ring in 2021-22 was mainly down to his scoring ability against the immature Boston Celtics.

2022-23 - Nikola Jokic - 53.6 Score

Stats: 30.2 PPG, 14.0 RPG, 7.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Nikola Jokic became an NBA champion and Finals MVP, solidifying himself as the best player in the world and one of the all-time great centers. An iconic passer of the ball, Jokic’s score of 53.6 ranks among the best on this list, and his ability to stuff the stat sheet is truly incredible as a center. Jokic is looking to add more rings to his resume to challenge the absolute elite centers in NBA history.