Can You Name The #2 Scorers Of Every NBA Champion Since 1977?

Rajiv Sharma

5 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

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For serious NBA fans, knowing the champions is just the tip of the iceberg. Do you truly understand the supporting casts that propelled these teams to victory? This article tests your basketball IQ with a challenging quiz: Can you name the #2 scorers of every NBA champion since 1977? Let's dive into the history books and see how well you fare!

The 1970s and 1980s: A Different Era of NBA Scoring

This era saw a shift in NBA dynamics, with legendary players and teams establishing their dominance. The style of play was different, and understanding the second-leading scorers provides valuable insight into the team's overall success.

The Showtime Lakers and Their Supporting Casts

The Los Angeles Lakers, led by the iconic Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, defined "Showtime" basketball in the 1980s. Their championship runs relied heavily on a strong supporting cast.

• 1980: Jamaal Wilkes (nearly 20 PPG, crucial scoring and rebounding). His consistent scoring helped offset the defensive attention on Kareem. Keywords: Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lakers dynasty, NBA scoring leaders
• 1982: Norm Nixon (16 PPG, excellent ball-handling and playmaking). He was Magic's backcourt partner and a key contributor to the fast-paced offense. Keywords: Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lakers dynasty, NBA scoring leaders
• 1985, 1987, 1988: James Worthy (around 17-20 PPG across these seasons, key scorer and versatile player). Worthy’s consistent scoring and athleticism were vital to the Lakers’ success, complementing Magic and Kareem perfectly. Keywords: Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, Lakers dynasty, NBA scoring leaders

The Rise of the Celtics and Their Second-Leading Guns

The Boston Celtics, led by the legendary Larry Bird, also dominated the 1980s. Their consistent success depended on a talented supporting cast.

• 1974, 1976: John Havlicek (though often the leading scorer during some of these years, his contributions highlight the overall team success). A testament to the Celtics’ balanced attack. Keywords: Larry Bird, John Havlicek, Boston Celtics, NBA Finals, Championship teams
• 1981, 1984, 1986: Kevin McHale (His scoring and rebounding abilities were critical to Celtics’ offensive balance). McHale's inside scoring complemented Bird's outside prowess. Keywords: Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Boston Celtics, NBA Finals, Championship teams

Other Championship Teams of the Era

Other teams also contributed to the rich history of the NBA in the 70s and 80s. Their second-leading scorers played crucial roles.

• Philadelphia 76ers (1983): Julius Erving (Dr. J) – While often the leading scorer, his impact on the team makes him worthy of mention. Keywords: Julius Erving, Philadelphia 76ers, NBA history
• Houston Rockets (1994, 1995): Hakeem Olajuwon – Often the top scorer, showing the dominance of a single player. Keywords: Hakeem Olajuwon, Houston Rockets, NBA history

The 1990s and 2000s: The Rise of Superstars and Their Sidekicks

This period saw the rise of legendary superstars and their impact on their teams. The supporting casts played critical roles in their championship runs.

The Michael Jordan Era and the Bulls' Supporting Roles

The Chicago Bulls dynasty, led by Michael Jordan, redefined NBA dominance. The second-leading scorers were essential to their success.

• 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998: Scottie Pippen (His defensive prowess and consistent scoring were essential.) Pippen’s all-around contributions were invaluable. Keywords: Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Chicago Bulls, NBA championships, Dennis Rodman

The Lakers' Second Act and Their Key Contributors

The Lakers' resurgence in the late 1990s and early 2000s featured the rise of Kobe Bryant and the dominance of Shaquille O'Neal. Their supporting casts helped build championship teams.

• 2000, 2001, 2002: Kobe Bryant (While often the second-leading scorer, his growth into a superstar is noteworthy). Kobe’s consistent scoring and improving all-around game became essential. Keywords: Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, Lakers, NBA playoffs

Other Notable Champions and Their Second-Leading Scorers

Other teams achieved championship glory during this era, highlighting the importance of strong supporting players.

• San Antonio Spurs (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007): Tim Duncan (Often the top scorer, highlighting their reliance on a dominant player). Keywords: Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs, NBA Finals MVP

The 2010s and 2020s: Modern NBA Dynamics and Supporting Casts

The modern NBA emphasizes a more balanced scoring attack and the importance of versatility.

The Golden State Warriors Dynasty and Its Supporting Players

The Golden State Warriors' dynasty, led by Stephen Curry, redefined modern NBA basketball. The team's success came from strong supporting players.

• 2015, 2017, 2018: Klay Thompson (His consistent scoring and three-point shooting formed a deadly combination with Curry). Keywords: Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, NBA Finals

The LeBron James Era and His Championship Teams

LeBron James' championship runs have showcased the importance of adaptability and strong supporting casts across different teams.

• 2012, 2013: Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat). Keywords: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat, NBA MVP
• 2016: Kyrie Irving (Cleveland Cavaliers). Keywords: LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers, NBA Finals
• 2020: Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers). Keywords: LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, NBA Finals

Other Recent Champions and Their Second-Fiddles

Several other teams have claimed NBA championships in recent years, showcasing a variety of team dynamics.

• Toronto Raptors (2019): Kawhi Leonard (Often the top scorer). Keywords: Kawhi Leonard, Toronto Raptors, NBA Finals history
• Milwaukee Bucks (2021): Khris Middleton (Key role in scoring). Keywords: Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks, NBA Finals history
• Denver Nuggets (2023): Jamal Murray (Crucial second option). Keywords: Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets, NBA Finals history

Conclusion

This quiz has tested your knowledge of the unsung heroes of NBA championship teams. Knowing the #2 scorers reveals a deeper understanding of the team dynamics and the crucial contributions that propelled these teams to greatness. From the legendary Lakers teams to the modern-day Warriors dynasty, the second-leading scorers played vital roles.

Call to Action: How many did you get right? Test your friends and family with this challenging quiz on the #2 scorers of every NBA champion since 1977! Share your score and challenge others to beat you! #NBAtrivia #NBAchampions #basketball Discuss your answers and your favorite #2 scorers in the comments below!