1995 NBA Finals Game 6 vs Magic
Don't ever underestimate the heart of a champion!
The 1995 NBA Finals was the championship series of the National Basketball Association's (NBA) 1994–95 season, and the conclusion of the season's playoffs. The series pitted the Eastern Conference champion Orlando Magic against the defending NBA champion and Western Conference champion Houston Rockets. The Rockets swept the Magic, repeating as champions and becoming the lowest-seeded team ever to win the Finals.
Quick Facts
- Year
- 1995
- Opponent
- Orlando Magic
- Result
- Rockets Win (Championship Clincher)
- Venue
- The Summit, Houston
- Series score
- 4-2
Lore & Background
The Rockets swept the Magic 4–0. In Game 1, with the Magic up 110–107 late, Nick Anderson missed four consecutive free throws, and Kenny Smith hit a three-pointer to tie the game and send it to overtime. The Rockets won in overtime and eventually swept the Magic. Hakeem Olajuwon was named Finals MVP for the second straight year.
Reader's Guide
The series was played in a 2–3–2 format. Game 1 and Game 2 were in Orlando; Game 3 and Game 4 were in Houston. The Rockets won all four games.
Did You Know?
- The Rockets became the first NBA team to win nine road playoff games and to beat four 50-win teams in a single postseason.
- The Rockets became the first repeat NBA Champion in history to keep the title with a sweep.
- The Rockets became the first team in NBA history to win the title without having home-court advantage in any of the four playoff rounds since the playoffs expanded to a 16-team format in 1984.
- As of 2026, the Rockets remain the lowest-seeded team (6th seed) to win the NBA Finals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who led the Rockets during this decisive championship game?
Center Hakeem Olajuwon commanded the floor and was named Finals MVP for his performance in clinching the title. His dominance helped the team overcome a young and talented Magic roster.
Where did Game 6 of the 1995 NBA Finals take place?
The match was played at The Summit in front of a raucous Houston crowd. This home-court advantage contributed to the team's ability to close out the series against Orlando.
How does this victory fit into the Rockets' overall legacy?
This win marked the second straight NBA title for the Rockets, establishing them as a dynasty of the mid-1990s. It remains one of the most celebrated moments in the team's history due to their rapid turnaround from the previous season.
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