Top Basketball Teams Of 2017: A Look Back

Ah, 2017! What a year for basketball. Guys, let's dive into the standout teams that dominated the courts and captured our attention. We're talking about the squads that displayed exceptional teamwork, skill, and determination. So, buckle up as we reminisce about the best basketball teams of 2017 and what made them so special. Let's get started!

Golden State Warriors: The Reigning Champions

When discussing the best basketball teams of 2017, it's impossible not to start with the Golden State Warriors. Fresh off their 2015 championship and a heartbreaking loss in the 2016 Finals, the Warriors were on a mission. The addition of Kevin Durant in the summer of 2016 turned them into an offensive juggernaut. With a starting lineup featuring Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, and Draymond Green, the Warriors possessed unparalleled firepower and defensive versatility.

Their regular season record of 67-15 was a testament to their dominance. They were virtually unstoppable, showcasing incredible ball movement, three-point shooting, and defensive intensity. The Warriors' offensive rating was through the roof, and their ability to switch on defense made them a nightmare matchup for any team. The chemistry between Curry, Thompson, Durant, and Green was palpable, and they played with a sense of joy and camaraderie that was infectious.

In the playoffs, the Warriors continued their dominant run. They swept through the first two rounds, dispatching the Portland Trail Blazers and Utah Jazz with ease. In the Western Conference Finals, they faced a tough challenge from the San Antonio Spurs, but ultimately prevailed in four games after Kawhi Leonard's injury. The NBA Finals saw them face off against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers for the third consecutive year.

The 2017 NBA Finals was a highly anticipated rematch, and the Warriors did not disappoint. They won the series in five games, showcasing their superior talent and depth. Kevin Durant was named Finals MVP, solidifying his place as one of the game's elite players. The Warriors' victory was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and strategic team building. They were the gold standard of basketball in 2017, and their impact on the game is still felt today.

The Warriors' success in 2017 wasn't just about talent; it was also about coaching and team culture. Head coach Steve Kerr instilled a selfless, team-first mentality that allowed the players to thrive. The Warriors played with a sense of purpose and unity, and they always seemed to be one step ahead of their opponents. Their ability to adapt and adjust on the fly was a key factor in their success. Whether it was Curry's dazzling ball-handling, Thompson's lights-out shooting, Durant's unstoppable scoring, or Green's tenacious defense, the Warriors had all the ingredients for a championship team. They truly deserved their spot as one of the best basketball teams of 2017.

Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron's Quest for Glory

Of course, you can't talk about the best basketball teams of 2017 without mentioning the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by none other than LeBron James. After their historic comeback victory in the 2016 Finals, the Cavaliers were determined to defend their title. With a roster featuring Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love, and a supporting cast of veterans, the Cavaliers were a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. LeBron James, in particular, was playing at an MVP level, showcasing his incredible all-around game.

The Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 51-31 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. While they didn't dominate the regular season like the Warriors, the Cavaliers were known for their ability to turn it up in the playoffs. LeBron James was the engine that drove the Cavaliers, and he consistently delivered clutch performances when his team needed him most. His ability to score, pass, and defend at an elite level made him a matchup nightmare for any opponent.

In the playoffs, the Cavaliers cruised through the first two rounds, sweeping the Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors. LeBron James was virtually unstoppable, averaging incredible numbers and showcasing his unparalleled athleticism. In the Eastern Conference Finals, they faced a tough challenge from the Boston Celtics, but ultimately prevailed in five games. The Cavaliers' victory set up a highly anticipated rematch against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals.

The 2017 NBA Finals was a battle of the titans, with LeBron James and the Cavaliers facing off against Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and the Warriors. While the Cavaliers put up a valiant fight, they ultimately fell short, losing the series in five games. The Warriors' superior talent and depth proved to be too much for the Cavaliers to overcome. Despite the loss, LeBron James' performance in the Finals was nothing short of spectacular, averaging a triple-double and solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

The Cavaliers' journey in 2017 was a testament to LeBron James' unwavering determination and leadership. He carried the team on his shoulders, inspiring his teammates to play at their best. The Cavaliers' success was a reflection of LeBron's relentless work ethic and his commitment to winning. While they ultimately fell short of their goal, the Cavaliers were undoubtedly one of the best basketball teams of 2017, and their rivalry with the Warriors will be remembered for years to come.

San Antonio Spurs: The Model of Consistency

The San Antonio Spurs, coached by the legendary Gregg Popovich, were once again among the best basketball teams of 2017. Led by Kawhi Leonard, the Spurs were known for their disciplined play, unselfish offense, and stifling defense. Despite not having the same level of star power as the Warriors or Cavaliers, the Spurs were always a threat to contend for a championship.

The Spurs finished the regular season with a 61-21 record, securing the second seed in the Western Conference. Kawhi Leonard was playing at an MVP level, showcasing his incredible two-way ability. The Spurs' offense was a well-oiled machine, with players moving the ball and setting screens to create open shots. Their defense was equally impressive, with players rotating and communicating effectively to shut down opposing offenses.

In the playoffs, the Spurs defeated the Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets to advance to the Western Conference Finals. They faced the Golden State Warriors in a highly anticipated matchup, but Kawhi Leonard's injury in Game 1 derailed their chances. The Warriors ultimately swept the Spurs, ending their season prematurely. Despite the disappointing ending, the Spurs' performance in 2017 was a testament to their consistent excellence and their ability to compete at the highest level.

The Spurs' success in 2017 was a reflection of their team-first mentality and their commitment to playing the right way. Coach Popovich instilled a culture of accountability and discipline, and the players bought into his system. The Spurs were known for their unselfish play, their attention to detail, and their ability to execute under pressure. They were a model of consistency and professionalism, and their impact on the game is undeniable. Even though they didn't win a championship in 2017, the San Antonio Spurs were undoubtedly one of the best basketball teams of the year, showcasing their unwavering commitment to excellence.

Houston Rockets: The Rise of a New Contender

The Houston Rockets, led by James Harden and coached by Mike D'Antoni, emerged as a new contender in the Western Conference in 2017. With their high-octane offense and emphasis on three-point shooting, the Rockets were one of the most exciting teams to watch. James Harden, in particular, was playing at an MVP level, orchestrating the offense and scoring at will.

The Rockets finished the regular season with a 55-27 record, securing the third seed in the Western Conference. James Harden averaged a remarkable 29.1 points and 11.2 assists per game, showcasing his incredible playmaking ability. The Rockets' offense was a three-point barrage, with players launching shots from beyond the arc at a record pace. Their ability to spread the floor and create open looks made them a difficult matchup for any team.

In the playoffs, the Rockets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs to advance to the Western Conference Semifinals. They faced a tough challenge from the Spurs, but ultimately fell short in six games. Despite the loss, the Rockets' performance in 2017 was a sign of things to come. They had established themselves as a legitimate contender, and their innovative offensive style was changing the game.

The Rockets' success in 2017 was a reflection of their willingness to embrace a new approach to the game. Coach D'Antoni empowered James Harden to run the offense, and the players bought into his system. The Rockets were known for their fast pace, their three-point shooting, and their ability to score in bunches. They were a team on the rise, and their impact on the NBA was undeniable. The Houston Rockets certainly earned their place among the best basketball teams of 2017.

In conclusion, 2017 was a year of outstanding basketball, with several teams vying for the top spot. The Golden State Warriors ultimately emerged as the champions, but the Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets all had memorable seasons. These teams showcased exceptional talent, teamwork, and determination, leaving a lasting impact on the game. As we look back on 2017, let's remember the incredible performances and unforgettable moments that made it such a special year for basketball fans everywhere. Whether it was the Warriors' dominant run, LeBron's heroic efforts, the Spurs' consistent excellence, or the Rockets' innovative offense, the best basketball teams of 2017 provided us with plenty of reasons to cheer. It was truly a year to remember!