1974 NBA Finals Game 6 vs Milwaukee Bucks

Lore & Background

In game six of the 1974 NBA Finals, the Bucks defeated the Celtics in double overtime. Abdul-Jabbar's 'sky hook' was the defining play of the game. The Bucks then lost game seven and did not return to the NBA Finals until 2021.

In Their Own Story

As the clock ticked down in the extra period, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar scanned the lane, his eyes betraying a split-second hesitation while looking for an entry pass. From the weak side, John Havlicek exploded forward—a blur of blue and white cutting through the chaos. His hand snapped out, snatching the ball from the air as if plucking it from Kareem's fingers. The crowd erupted before the ball even hit the floor. Havlicek didn't hesitate; he drove hard through the lane, absorbing contact, and laid the ball in to break the game open. The buzzer sounded moments later, but the celebration had already begun; the dynasty was alive again.

Reader's Guide

This entry covers Game 6 of the 1974 NBA Finals. The Bucks won the game 102–87 in double overtime. The series was tied 3–3 after this game, but the Celtics won the championship in Game 7.

Did You Know?

• The Bucks' 1974 Finals appearance was their second, after winning the championship in 1971.
• Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's 'sky hook' in double overtime is one of the most famous shots in NBA history.
• The Bucks did not return to the NBA Finals after 1974 until 2021.