2014 Western Conference Semifinals Game 6 vs. Spurs
The Clippers are a perennial contender in the 2010s, but have never reached the NBA Finals.
The Los Angeles Clippers are an American professional basketball team based in the Greater Los Angeles area. The Clippers compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a member of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference. The team plays its home games at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, beginning with the 2024–25 NBA season. Previously, the Clippers played their home games at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles from 1999 to 2024, which they had shared with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), and the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League (NHL). They are frequently referred to by their fans as "the Clips" or "LAC".
Quick Facts
- Series outcome
- Clippers advance to Western Conference Finals
Lore & Background
The franchise was founded as the Buffalo Braves in 1970 as an expansion team. Led by Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo, the Braves reached the NBA playoffs three times during their eight seasons in Buffalo. Conflicts with the Canisius Golden Griffins over Buffalo Memorial Auditorium and the sale of the franchise led to their relocation from Buffalo to San Diego, California, in 1978 and subsequent rebranding as the San Diego Clippers, in reference to the sailing ships seen in San Diego Bay. The team saw little success on the court and missed the playoffs during all six of their years in San Diego. In 1984, owner Donald Sterling controversially relocated the franchise to Los Angeles without NBA approval, which was permitted following legal action between the league and Sterling. Over the course of their first 27 seasons in Los Angeles, the Clippers qualified for the postseason only four times and won a single playoff round. As a result, they have been frequently described as a perennial loser in American professional sports, drawing unfavorable comparisons to the historically successful Lakers. The Clippers' reputation improved during the 2010s, which saw them transform into consistent postseason contenders. Aided by the Lob City lineup of Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, and Chris Paul, the team qualified for the playoffs in six consecutive seasons from 2012 to 2017 and won two consecutive division titles in 2013 and 2014, both firsts for the franchise. Despite this success, the Clippers struggled in the postseason and were frequently eliminated in the Conference Semifinals; the team reached the conference finals for the first time in 2021. To date, they are the oldest franchise in North American professional sports to have never played in a championship game.
Reader's Guide
The 2014 Western Conference Semifinals saw the Clippers face the San Antonio Spurs. The Clippers then lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals, not the Conference Finals.
Franchise Origins and Early Dominance
Facing financial ruin, new owners relocated the franchise to Minneapolis, renaming them the Lakers after the state's nickname. This pivotal move coincided with the acquisition of George Mikan via a dispersal draft, transforming the team into an immediate powerhouse. Mikan's individual brilliance was unmatched, as he led the league in scoring multiple times and dominated the boards, establishing a dynasty that laid the groundwork for decades of future success.
The Showtime Era and Historic Rivalries
The team's identity shifted dramatically in 1979 when Jerry Buss purchased the franchise, envisioning basketball as high-octane entertainment. Simultaneously, the drafting of Magic Johnson alongside the acquisition of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar created a superstar duo that defined an era. With Pat Riley taking over coaching duties and James Worthy joining the roster in 1982, the Lakers became an unstoppable force. They captured five championships within nine years, famously defeating Boston twice to cement their legacy as one of the league's greatest dynasties.
The Shaq-Kobe Dynasty and Recent Triumphs
After a challenging early 1990s following the departures of their legendary stars, the Lakers rebuilt by trading for Kobe Bryant in 1996 and signing Shaquille O'Neal. This powerful pairing, guided by Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson, propelled the franchise to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002, achieving a second historic three-peat. Although the duo eventually parted ways after a Finals loss in 2004, the team returned to prominence by acquiring Pau Gasol. This new core reached the Finals again in 2008 and secured back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010, marking their most recent victory against Boston.
Legacy of Greatness and Statistical Records
The Lakers stand as one of the most decorated franchises in professional sports, boasting a record-setting 33-game winning streak established during the 1971–72 season. Their roster has featured an astounding 26 Hall of Fame players, while four coaches have also earned this distinction. The franchise's history is punctuated by individual brilliance, with legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kobe Bryant combining to win eight NBA Most Valuable Player awards while wearing the purple and gold. As one of only eight teams from the league's first decade still operating today, their longevity is remarkable. From their origins as the Detroit Gems to becoming a global brand sharing Crypto.com Arena with other major sports franchises, the Lakers have maintained an elite status. Their 17 championships place them at the pinnacle of NBA history, serving as a benchmark for success and entertainment that has influenced the league for nearly eight decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of Game 6 in the 2014 Western Conference Semifinals?
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the San Antonio Spurs to close out the series 4-2 and advance to the Western Conference Finals. This win marked the franchise's first-ever playoff series victory against a historically dominant opponent.
Where did this pivotal game take place?
The match was hosted at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. It remains one of the most significant nights ever played on that court for Clippers fans.
Which player led the Clippers during this matchup?
Blake Griffin delivered a standout performance with 34 points and 13 rebounds to drive the team forward. His leadership was crucial in securing the elimination win against San Antonio.
Why is this game considered a watershed moment for the franchise?
It signaled the end of decades of playoff struggles by finally overcoming a dynasty on their home floor. The emotional release from the fanbase highlighted the team's arrival as a legitimate contender in the West.
What was the series standing before Game 6 began?
Los Angeles held a 3-2 lead after splitting the first four games and winning Game 5 away. They needed only one more victory to eliminate the Spurs and move on in the playoffs.
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