
The 2000 NBA season was another exciting year in the world of professional basketball, full of memorable moments that helped shape the future of the league. Here are some of the key moments from the 2000 NBA season that continue to captivate fans and inspire new generations of players:
- The Dunk Contest Duel between Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady: The 2000 Slam Dunk Contest was a landmark moment in NBA history, as two of the league’s most electrifying players, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, went head-to-head in an epic showdown. Carter’s jaw-dropping dunks, including a 360-degree windmill and a between-the-legs jam, made him the undisputed champion of the contest and solidified his place as one of the greatest dunkers of all time.
- The Lakers Three-Peat: The Los Angeles Lakers, led by superstars Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, won their third consecutive championship in 2000, solidifying their place as one of the greatest teams of the modern era. This championship run marked the beginning of the Lakers’ dynasty and set the stage for their continued success in the years to come.
- The Rise of Allen Iverson: Allen Iverson had a breakthrough season in 2000, winning the NBA Most Valuable Player award and leading the Philadelphia 76ers to the NBA Finals. His relentless competitiveness, flashy style of play, and fearless attitude made him a fan favorite and one of the most entertaining players in the league.
- The Game-Winning Shot by Ray Allen: In Game 6 of the 2000 NBA Finals, Ray Allen hit a clutch three-pointer with just seconds left in the game to help lead the Milwaukee Bucks to a dramatic 83-80 victory over the Indiana Pacers. This clutch shot solidified Allen’s reputation as a big-game performer and one of the best clutch shooters in the league.
- The Retirement of Reggie Miller: After 18 years in the league, Reggie Miller announced his retirement in 2000. He left behind a legacy as one of the greatest three-point shooters in NBA history, with more than 2,560 made three-pointers and a career scoring average of 18.2 points per game.
- The Emergence of the Sacramento Kings: The Sacramento Kings, led by Chris Webber, Vlade Divac, and Peja Stojakovic, had a breakout season in 2000, winning a franchise-record 55 games and earning the top seed in the Western Conference. They became one of the most exciting and entertaining teams in the league, known for their high-scoring style of play and dynamic offense.
These are just a few of the key moments from the 2000 NBA season. This year was a turning point for the league, as it saw the emergence of new stars and the continued success of some of the all-time greats. The players, coaches, and moments of the 2000 NBA season will forever be remembered as some of the most exciting and memorable in the history of the game.