When Andre Iguodala became a historic Finals MVP
There are exceptions to the long list of Finals MVPs since the trophy’s creation in 1969. The first, and undoubtedly the most famous, is Jerry West who alone won this trophy, precisely in 1969although he lost the final.
Another, for example, is the late Wes Unseld, passed away on June 2, 2020. The former Bullets center is the only winner who did not average more than 10 points, with his 9 points per game in 1978.
Substitution at the start of the final
Finally, the third exception, s Another Iguodala2015 Finals MVP The Warriors’ wing is simply the only Finals MVP who did not start in the top five in all games of this Finals series.
The former Sixers and Nuggets actually (as was the case during the regular season) started the Finals against LeBron James and the Cavaliers on the bench. Except after losing Game 3 and trailing his troops 2-1, Steve Kerr changed his strategy. He integrates Andre Iguodala into the main five, instead of Andrew Bogut who is not dangerous enough offensively.
It’s obvious that by then the Cavs’ defense was focusing on Stephen Curry, and as Klay Thompson and Draymond Green were irregular, the Californians’ offense was slipping. This is the creation of a “death squad,” with Curry, Thompson, Iguodala, Harrison Barnes and Green. The Warriors won Game 4 and then Game 5.
Capital in attack, valuable in defense
On June 16, 2015, in Game 6, this lineup of five very versatile players will once again inflict massive damage on David Blatt’s defense. The Cavaliers are overwhelmed by the Warriors’ speed and carry. The 2015 final was tactically excellent and Steve Kerr won the battle.
“He was very strong in this series and saved our season”, absolutely believes Draymond Green and talk to Andrew. “I’ve always said he’s a great professional. He showed it. That’s why he’s the MVP of the final.”
Andre Iguodala changed the face of the series and his last match was the most successful with 25 points in the victory of the Warriors (97-105). In the three games in which he started, he averaged 20.3 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals.
In addition, we must highlight his defensive work on LeBron James. The Cavaliers star, isolated due to the absence of Kyrie Irving (injured since Game 1 of the Finals) and Kevin Love (since the first round), was enormous, putting up monstrous numbers (35.8 points, 13.3 rebounds, 8.8 assists average), but suffered against Andre Iguodala. He will only shoot 38% against the Finals MVP.
The two men are also the only ones to receive votes for this trophy. Of the 11 journalists polled, Andre Iguodala (16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4 assists in this final) won the vote 7 votes to 4.
2026-01-28 17:22:00
