The 2019 NBA Finals concluded on Thursday, June 13th, with the Toronto Raptors winning the series 4-2 against the Golden State Warriors. This is the first time in franchise history that the Raptors have claimed the championship. After a hard-fought series that saw the Warriors push the Raptors to their limits, Toronto emerged as the victor and celebrated their first championship win.
Overview of the Series
The series began on May 30th as the Raptors and Warriors faced off in Toronto at the Scotiabank Arena. The Raptors took Game 1, 118-109, with Kawhi Leonard leading the way with a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds. The Raptors then won Game 2, 109-104, to take a 2-0 lead in the series.
The series shifted to Oakland for Games 3 and 4, and the Warriors made a statement in Game 3, winning 123-109. The Warriors then took Game 4, 105-92, to even the series at 2-2.
The series returned to Toronto for Games 5 and 6, and the Raptors won Game 5, 114-110, to take a 3-2 lead in the series. In Game 6, the Raptors were able to close out the series with a 114-110 victory.
Kawhi Leonard is Named Finals MVP
Kawhi Leonard was named the 2019 NBA Finals MVP after leading the Raptors to victory in the series. Leonard averaged 28.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in the series, while also shooting 40.5 percent from three-point range. Leonard was the leader of the team throughout the series, and his performance earned him the MVP award.
Reaction to the Raptors’ Win
The Raptors’ win was met with jubilation in Toronto and across Canada. Fans in Toronto flooded the streets to celebrate the team’s first championship win. The Raptors’ win also made history, as it is the first time a Canadian team has won the NBA championship.
The win was also met with congratulations from other NBA teams and players. The Warriors congratulated the Raptors on their win and also congratulated Leonard on his MVP award.
Conclusion
The Toronto Raptors won the 2019 NBA Finals 4-2 against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, June 13th. Kawhi Leonard was named the Finals MVP after leading the Raptors to victory with his stellar play. The Raptors’ win was met with jubilation in Toronto and across Canada, as it is the first time a Canadian team has won the NBA championship.