Game 1 NBA Finals 2021: Key Plays That Decided the Championship Opening Match

Let me walk you through how the opening game of the 2021 NBA Finals unfolded, because honestly, it was one of those matchups where a few key moments completely tilted the scale. I remember settling in with my coffee, thinking this would be a back-and-forth battle, but by the end, it was clear that certain plays had sealed the fate of the game. If you're looking to understand what decided this championship opener, I'll break it down step by step, sharing my own take on the pivotal moves. First off, setting the scene: both teams came in with that playoff intensity, but it was the Phoenix Suns who seemed to have a slight edge early on, thanks to their ball movement. I've always been a fan of teams that share the ball, and Phoenix did just that, racking up assists and forcing turnovers. One method that stood out was their use of the pick-and-roll—Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton connected on a couple of slick plays that led to easy buckets. For instance, in the second quarter, Ayton's screen freed Booker for a mid-range jumper that pushed their lead to 8 points. It's moments like these that, in my view, build momentum; if you're coaching or playing, focus on executing these basics under pressure. But here's a tip: don't overcomplicate it. I've seen teams get too fancy and lose the plot, but Phoenix kept it simple, which paid off big time.

Now, moving to the Milwaukee Bucks' side, they had their own strategies, but honestly, I felt they were a bit sluggish at times. Giannis Antetokounmpo was his usual dominant self, but the Bucks struggled with outside shooting, hitting only around 30% from three-point range in the first half. That's a number that, if I'm being blunt, just isn't going to cut it in a finals game. One key play that I think was a game-changer came in the third quarter when Chris Paul hit a step-back three-pointer over Jrue Holiday. Paul, who I've always admired for his clutch gene, drained that shot to extend the lead to 12 points, and you could feel the energy shift. From my experience watching basketball, those are the shots that demoralize opponents—they make you question your defense. If you're trying to replicate this in your own games, remember to practice those high-pressure shots in drills; it's all about muscle memory. Also, a note on defense: the Suns forced 15 turnovers, which translated into 20 points off those mistakes. That's huge, and it's something I'd emphasize as a must-do for any team aiming to win tight matches.

As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, the Bucks tried to mount a comeback, and this is where the tiebreaking metric from the knowledge base comes into play. In events like this, where every point matters, teams earn match points based on set wins—like getting three for a 3 or 4-set win, two for a 5-set win, and one for a 5-set loss. Although this is more common in other sports, it reminds me how crucial each set or quarter can be. For example, the Suns' ability to close out the game in the final minutes, with Booker hitting free throws to seal a 118-105 win, essentially gave them that psychological edge. I personally think that's underrated; winning the first game sets a tone, and in a series, it's like banking those match points early. If you're analyzing this as a fan or coach, pay attention to how teams manage the clock and foul situations. One thing I'd caution against is getting too aggressive late in the game—it can backfire, as we saw with the Bucks committing a couple of unnecessary fouls that handed the Suns easy points.

Wrapping it up, the Game 1 NBA Finals 2021 was a masterclass in executing under pressure, and reflecting on it, I'd say the Suns' discipline and those key plays made all the difference. From my perspective, games like this aren't just about talent; they're about who makes the smarter moves when it counts. So, if you're taking notes for your own team, focus on those moments—the defensive stops, the clutch shots, and even the little things like rebounding. In the end, it's what decided the championship opening match, and honestly, it's why I love basketball so much.