We are currently in the midst of the NBA Finals between the Denver Nuggets and Miami Heat.
But just because so much attention is being paid to this series doesn’t mean people aren’t remembering a legendary one from the past.
22 years ago, Allen Iverson of the Philadelphia 76ers created a viral and epic Finals moment when he scored a tough two-point shot despite the defense of dogged Los Angeles Lakers star Tyronn Lue.
After scoring the clutch two-pointer in overtime, Iverson then purposefully stepped over Lue, who was laying on the ground after the lightning-fast moves by Iverson.
At that moment, a classic NBA meme was born.
22 years ago today, Allen Iverson gave us one of the most iconic moments in NBA history 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Z4y7dUOJBR
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) June 6, 2023
All these years later, people are still talking about Iverson’s step over Lue.
The moment is spoken of repeatedly and the highlight is played constantly every year.
But it is sometimes overshadowed by the fact that the 76ers would go on to lose four games straight and, consequently, the Finals.
“Lost four in a row immediately after, job wasn’t done,” one fan said on Twitter.
Lost four in a row immediately after, job wasn’t done
— Xassan Xasxi (@Hasuena11) June 6, 2023
Others are criticizing Iverson on the anniversary of his special play.
They are reminding him and his fans that he never won a championship ring, as talented as he is.
Still no rings
— God's Son99 (@therealspankg) June 6, 2023
Others said that something like this could never occur today because Iverson would be cited for taunting his opponent, earning a technical foul.
This was wild in real time, now this would be taunting or something lol!
— J.Hopp💯✊🏾🏁🖤🖤 (@J__H0pp) June 6, 2023
It isn’t easy being part of this moment for someone like Lue.
But even he is celebrated on the anniversary of this memorable play.
“Ty Lue has nothing to be ashamed about being stepped over,” a fan said.
Ty Lue has nothing to be ashamed about being stepped over, it’s an iconic moment in the Finals history.
— Mark Sekah (@sneakerchasing) June 6, 2023
Some people use the remembrance of this moment to bash Iverson or Lue.
Others use it as a time to praise the Lakers.
And certain fans see an opportunity to pan the current state of the league.
But nothing changes the fact that this will always be one of the most stand-out moments in NBA Finals history.
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