NBA Champions Quiz: How Well Do You Know Their Second-Best Scorers? (Since 1977)

Natalie Brooks

6 min read

Post on May 15, 2025

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The 1970s & 1980s: A Look Back at the Supporting Cast of Champions

This era saw the rise of legendary teams with incredible depth. Let's delve into some of the pivotal second-best scorers who helped secure championships.

The Showtime Lakers and their crucial second fiddle (e.g., James Worthy)

• James Worthy, "Big Game James," was a crucial part of the Showtime Lakers' success. His athleticism and smooth scoring ability provided a perfect complement to Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
• Worthy's consistent performances in the playoffs were instrumental in securing championships. He averaged over 17 points per game in the Finals several times.
• Other notable second-best scorers from this era for the Lakers included Michael Cooper, known for his tenacious defense and clutch shooting.

[Insert image/video clip of James Worthy highlights]

The Boston Celtics Dynasty and their consistent contributors (e.g., Robert Parish)

• Robert Parish, the "Chief," was a defensive force and a reliable scorer for the Celtics dynasty. His consistency and experience were invaluable alongside Larry Bird and Kevin McHale.
• Parish's rebounding prowess and post moves provided a crucial inside presence, often freeing up Bird for open shots.
• Other key contributors during the Celtics' championship runs included Dennis Johnson, known for his defensive intensity and clutch plays.

[Insert image/video clip of Robert Parish highlights]

The Philadelphia 76ers' supporting cast (e.g., Julius Erving's sidekick)

• While Julius Erving was undoubtedly the star, the 76ers' success also relied heavily on the contributions of players like Andrew Toney, a talented and explosive guard.
• Toney's scoring ability and his ability to create his own shots helped balance the team's offensive attack.
• The 76ers' championship runs also benefited from the contributions of other key players like Moses Malone and Maurice Cheeks, providing crucial support around Dr. J.

[Insert image/video clip of Andrew Toney highlights]

The 1990s & 2000s: The Rise of Star-Studded Teams and Unsung Heroes

This era showcased some of the most dominant teams in NBA history, but even the most star-studded rosters relied on strong supporting players.

The Chicago Bulls’ Supporting Players (e.g., Scottie Pippen)

• Scottie Pippen was far more than just a sidekick to Michael Jordan. His all-around game, defensive prowess, and clutch performances were essential to the Bulls' six championships.
• Pippen's scoring, rebounding, and assists were consistently impressive, making him a true two-way superstar. His ability to create plays and lead the team in Jordan's absence showcased his leadership and expertise.
• While Jordan's scoring dominance is well known, Pippen's consistent contributions were critical to the Bulls’ overall success.

[Insert image/video clip of Scottie Pippen highlights]

The San Antonio Spurs' consistent performance and their key role players (e.g., Tim Duncan’s supporting cast)

• The Spurs' dynasty of the late 1990s and 2000s relied heavily on the contributions of Manu Ginobili. His energy, off-ball movement and scoring ability made him the perfect complement to Tim Duncan and Tony Parker.
• Ginobili's unorthodox style and ability to hit clutch shots were key factors in the Spurs' success. His impact extended far beyond the box score.
• Tony Parker, while often the second-leading scorer in some years, was vital for his playmaking and scoring.

[Insert image/video clip of Manu Ginobili highlights]

The Los Angeles Lakers' secondary scorers in the Shaq-Kobe era (e.g., Robert Horry)

• Robert Horry, "Big Shot Rob," cemented his place in NBA history with his clutch performances in multiple NBA Finals. While not always the second-leading scorer, his impact was invaluable.
• Horry's ability to make crucial plays in high-pressure situations made him a vital component of the Lakers' championship teams.
• Other key role players such as Derek Fisher played pivotal roles in the Lakers' championship runs and their contribution to the team's success should be acknowledged.

[Insert image/video clip of Robert Horry highlights]

The 2010s & 2020s: Modern NBA Champions and Their Second-Best Scorers

The modern NBA presents a new set of challenges and a different style of play, but the importance of the second-best scorer remains.

The Golden State Warriors’ dynamic supporting cast (e.g., Klay Thompson)

• Klay Thompson's sharpshooting ability and incredible scoring bursts provided a perfect balance alongside Stephen Curry. His off-ball movement and ability to create space for Curry was key.
• Thompson's defensive intensity also made him a valuable asset, rounding out his overall game.
• His consistent scoring ability significantly increased the Warriors’ offensive threat.

[Insert image/video clip of Klay Thompson highlights]

The Toronto Raptors' unexpected championship run and their key players (e.g., Kawhi Leonard's supporting cast)

• The Raptors' 2019 championship win was a testament to team effort, with Pascal Siakam emerging as a key player. His ability to score inside and out made him a serious offensive threat.
• Siakam’s all-around game contributed significantly to the team's overall success during the championship run.
• Kyle Lowry’s leadership and experience were also incredibly vital to the team's cohesion.

[Insert image/video clip of Pascal Siakam highlights]

Recent NBA Champions and their second-best scorers (mention teams and players from recent years)

• [Mention recent champions' second-best scorers, such as Jimmy Butler for the Miami Heat, Anthony Davis for the Los Angeles Lakers, or other relevant players, focusing on their key contributions and statistics. Include image/video clips.]

Conclusion: How Well Did You Score? Test Your NBA Champions Knowledge Again!

This quiz highlighted the often-unsung heroes of NBA championship teams – the second-best scorers who played critical roles in their team's success. From the legendary Showtime Lakers to the modern-day Golden State Warriors, the consistent contributions of these players are undeniable. Their diverse skill sets, from sharpshooting to defensive prowess, demonstrated the importance of a well-rounded team.

How well did you do? Share your score and challenge your friends to take the "NBA Champions second-best scorers quiz"! Revisit the article to delve deeper into the impressive careers of these players. Let us know your thoughts on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! [Insert social media sharing links]. Stay tuned for more quizzes testing your knowledge of NBA history and its legendary players! Keep testing your knowledge of NBA Champions' second-best scorers and discover more hidden talents within this captivating sport.