| June 16, 2022, 11:43 p.m.
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors not only captured his fourth NBA championship on Thursday, but the superstar also won his first NBA Finals MVP award, winning by a unanimous vote.
The Warriors lifted the Larry O’Brien Trophy for the fourth time in eight years after defeating the Boston Celtics 103-90 during the sixth game of the NBA Finals.
Although Curry was named the Most Valuable Player of the Regular Season in 2015 and ’16, the NBA Finals MVP eluded him during previous Golden State victories. Andre Iguodala won the honor in 2015, while Kevin Durant won it twice in 2017 and ’18.
“This one is different, sure, just knowing what the last three years have meant, how it’s been from injuries to the change of guard on the squad,” Curry said. “… I can tell now, I don’t know how many teams could carry this as long as we have the expectations to compare ourselves now with teams from the past and go back to the top of the mountain.”
The NBA Finals MVP was renamed in 2009 in honor of Celtics legend and 11-time NBA champion Bill Russell.
“I’ve said it many times. Steph reminds me a lot of Tim Duncan. Obviously totally different players. But only from the point of view of humanity, the point of view of talent, humility, confidence, a wonderful combination that makes that everyone wants to win. he, ”Warriors coach Steve Kerr said.
“Steph is ultimately the reason this race has happened, like Timmy in San Antonio,” Kerr added. “I’m happy for everyone, but I’m excited for Steph. For me, this is his greatest success in what has already been an incredible career.”