The NBPA president played a big role in the NBA even getting to this point, so it was fitting he took a starring role in the Suns' Game 1 win, writes Ramona Shelburne.
Coverage of the 2021 NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis and the Bucks are forcing ridiculous shot-making from Phoenix -- and it's working
With Giannis as their anchor, the Bucks' elite defense has plugged passing lanes CP3 and Devin Booker have long exploited. The result? More isolations for the backcourt duo -- and absurdly difficult shots.
Read Zach Lowe's story
Get used to seeing Giannis on this stage, folks
History tells us when players dominate the paint like Giannis does, they tend to dominate the playoffs too.
Read Kirk Goldsberry's story
How P.J. Tucker found his place in the NBA
For every tale of Tucker's elite fashion sense or locker-room antics, there are twice as many about the undersized power forward's near-legendary competitive streak.
Read the story from Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon
How the Milwaukee Bucks finally constructed a title contender
From Giannis Antetokounmpo's breakout to the hiring of Mike Budenholzer, from building a diamond of an arena to the signing of Brook Lopez, here are nine critical moments that brought the Milwaukee Bucks from mediocrity to title contender.
Read Kevin Arnovitz's story
How the Suns got to the Finals
First round: Def. Los Angeles Lakers (7), 4-2
Conf. semis: Def. Denver Nuggets (3), 4-0
Conf. finals: Def. LA Clippers (4), 4-2
Whether destiny or redemption, the Suns' story is improbable and unique
Whether they're a team of destiny or they're controlling it themselves, Chris Paul and the Suns are on an unprecedented path to the NBA Finals.
Read Brian Windhorst's story
How the Suns' devastating pick-and-roll is picking apart the NBA
After adding wrinkles and layers to what was an ordinary offense, the Suns have developed a high-octane pick-and-roll attack -- and few have shown any ability to slow it down.
Read Zach Lowe's story
Inside Deandre Ayton's road map to the upper tier of NBA centers
Being overshadowed by Luka Doncic doesn't mean the No. 1 pick from the 2018 draft is lacking potential -- far from it. There are moments when he elevates himself into the upper tier of NBA centers, a development that could reshape the future of the Western Conference.
Read Brian Windhorst's story
How the Bucks got to the Finals
First round: Def. Miami Heat (6), 4-0
Conf. semis: Def. Brooklyn Nets (2), 4-3
Conf. finals: Def. Atlanta Hawks (5), 4-2
The Bucks have reached the final level, but can they beat the Suns without Giannis?
The wounded Milwaukee Bucks rode Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday into the Finals, but will they have enough to handle their final challenge?
Read Kevin Arnovitz's story
Why the Bucks' MVP and closer might not be the same player
The Bucks have the NBA's most devastating finisher in Giannis Antetokounmpo. They spent a fortune to land All-Star guard Jrue Holiday. So why is it that Khris Middleton might hold the key to their championship dreams?
Read Kevin Arnovitz's story
Everything is fuel for Giannis Antetokounmpo's competitive fire
There isn't a space, venue or room that Giannis Antetokounmpo can't turn into an arena for friendly combat.
Read Malika Andrews' story
Historical NBA Finals coverage
2020: LeBron, Lakers back on top
The Los Angeles Lakers conquered the NBA's Orlando bubble, defeating the Miami Heat in six games for the 17th championship in franchise history.
Complete 2020 NBA Finals coverage
2019: Kawhi becomes King in the North
For the first time in NBA history a team outside the United States won the championship, as the Toronto Raptors knocked off the Golden State Warriors in six games.
Complete 2019 NBA Finals coverage
2018: How sweep it is for Warriors
The Golden State Warriors capped off a second consecutive title run by defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in four games.
Complete 2018 NBA Finals coverage
2017: Durant puts Warriors back on top
The Golden State Warriors were nearly perfect in 2017, going 16-1 in the playoffs en route to winning the NBA championship.
Complete 2017 NBA Finals coverage
2016: 'Cleveland, this is for you!'
LeBron James and the Cavaliers ended Cleveland's 52-year title drought by becoming the first team to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the Finals.
Complete 2016 NBA Finals coverage