'Beat Reporters' Turn Out To Be Deadbeat Reporters

Miami Heat Parade 2012: Route, Schedule And Live Stream

The parade celebration for the Miami Heat's 2012 NBA Championship victory will run for nearly two miles through the Miami downtown area on Monday.

The parade, which is set to begin at 11 a.m., should last 90 minutes, beginning at the corner of Southwest 8th Street and Second Avenue (Calle Ocho) before ending at the American Airlines Arena. The parade will also pass Brickell, the Intercontinental Hotel and Bicayne Boulevard.

CBS Miami reported that the celebration at the Arena is exclusive and free for season ticket holders, only.

LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh are just a few Heat players expected to celebrate with the fans. That means Dexter Pittman and Eddy Curry should also be at the parade, since they're on the team too.

This is your StoryStream for all news on the Miami Heat victory celebration. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub. Also subscribe to the SB Nation Youtube channel for video commentary.

In The Court Of The Miami Heat's King

Lebron James finally proved that he is a champion. His critics no longer have a leg to stand on.

Miami Heat Victory Parade Scheduled For Monday, Festivities Starting At 9 A.M.

Miami fans, the parade in honor of the NBA Champion Miami Heat will take place on Monday, June 25, according to Miami Herald writers Adam H. Beasley and Michael Vasquez. Parade festivities are scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Monday morning with the actual parade beginning at 11 a.m. with the current plan to conclude at noon. The route has not yet been released

The team will then have an additional celebration inside AmericanAirlines Arena starting at 12:30 p.m. The celebration has been raucous in Miami, but there have been no reports of law-breaking or rioting, just excited Heat fans running around the city. One part of Miami that is the unofficial celebration street for Heat victories named Bird Road wound as a globally trending topic.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Miami Win 2012 Championship: About Damn Time

It's been nine years of hype since LeBron James entered the NBA. Nine years of waiting for the "King" to become the king. Nine years of waiting to actually "witness" the things we all know he's capable of.

When the waiting finally ended, it wasn't due to chance. It was due to a fundamental change in the way LeBron played and the moment when he became more than an elite, underachieving talent. As Andrew Sharp said in his SB Nation post:

"Go back and compare the player from that Mavericks series to the one we saw this week in Miami. One's an insanely gifted, underachieving All-Star, the other is a Hall of Famer operating on a whole different plane from anyone else on the court. LeBron just took a Heat team that should have been overmatched and completely outclassed a better team, totally outplayed his closest MVP competition, and by the end, he was making it all look easy."

Not only was the change of his play visible, it was downright chartable. From CourtsideAnalytics, the difference is obvious. And so, the person that so many basketball fans love to hate became the champion everyone thought he should've been so many times before.

From Sharp:

"Root for the good guys, root for the bad guys, whatever. But we never want there to be fewer Hall of Fame superheros to tell our kids about. Watching LeBron was a gift the past few games, and as he carved up the Thunder and just kept making it look easier and easier and getting closer and closer to that ring, it became obvious that we were watching history that we'd never forget. As Henry Abbot said, that "Witness" campaign isn't a joke anymore."

Miami Wins 2012 Championship: Heat, LeBron James Partying With LMFAO

In February 2012, New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski drew some criticism for partying with LMFAO following a Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants. Apparently LMFAO takes part in post-championship fun often:

The most notable thing to me in the video is that LeBron James parties at clubs wearing T-shirts with his own face on them. Bold. On the other hand, if you're the NBA Finals MVP, it doesn't really matter what you wear to the club after does it?

I have to say though, I'm very disappointed with two things, though:

A) The camera did not show LeBron and the rest of the Heat doing some sort of dance during "Sexy and I Know It."

B) Chris Bosh never had the microphone. The more he's in the spotlight, the better. He just entertains me, don't ask why.

Clearly the Miami Heat are enjoying their first NBA Championship since acquiring LeBron James and Chris Bosh in 2010, but it's just one, right New York Post?

Miami Wins 2012 Championship: "Other Guys" Make Difference

LeBron James certainly earned his NBA FInals MVP Award with another triple double in game five of the series to finish with an average of 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds and 7.4 assists in the series. He was too much for the Oklahoma City Thunder inside and when he was double teamed he set up his teammates on the outside.

But as Surya Fernandez of Peninsula Is Mightier said, it was the contributions of the "other guys" on the Heat that helped push Miami up and over the crest:

"This time the team wasn't just about the Big 3, though they each played masterfully to their strengths. This series was also about 'the other guys': Shane Battier's defense and deadly accuracy beyond the arc, Mario Chalmers' confidence, and young Norris Cole playing quality minutes in a limited but critical role."

Add in the play of Mike Miller who made seven of eight three-point attempts in game five and the Heat had several players making significant contributions outside of James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on theHeat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

LeBron James Fulfills Destiny As NBA Champion

LeBron James has finally reached the top of the mountain

LeBron James Nike Video 'The Ring Maker' Revealed Minutes After NBA Finals

Heat Win 2012 NBA Title, Pat Riley Wants To Party

LeBron James Named 2012 NBA Finals MVP

To the surprise of no one, LeBron James was named the 2012 NBA Finals MVP after the Heat's impressive Game 5 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. James was simply dominant throughout the playoffs and the Finals, earning a unanimous nomination for the Bill Russell MVP Trophy. The 2012 regular season MVP closed out the Finals with a triple-double performance in Game 5, scoring 26 points, dishing 13 assists, and grabbing 11 rebounds.

LeBron was the unquestioned leader throughout the 2012 Playoffs, and while six players hit double figures in Game 5, it was James that carried them there and then facilitated the offense throughout the clincher. James spoke on the podium after he was presented the trophy, and simply exclaimed, "It's about damn time!"

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, NBA Finals 2012 Game 5: Miami Wins NBA Title With Dominating 121-106 Victory

The Miami Heat are the 2012 NBA Champions. The Heat completed a gentleman's sweep of the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night, blowing them out 121-106 to win their fourth straight Finals game and clinch the title. LeBron James and Dwyane Wade were taken out of the game with three minutes to play, as Miami led by as many as 27 points in the final 12 minutes. It was a dominating performance all around, with six players in double figures as the Heat put up better than 50 percent from the floor and better than 55 percent from behind three-point range.

But as you would expect, it came down to 2012 MVP LeBron James. He was absolutely incredible yet again, finishing off his remarkable 2012 Playoffs run with a triple-double. James continually set up his shooters as the Heat poured it on, matching his playoff-career high 13 assists while adding 26 points and 11 rebounds. He hit all the open men at the right time as the offense was in perfect form thanks to its perfect superstar. The monkey off his back, he celebrated with his team on the sidelines over the final three minutes of jubilation. Video of the celebration:

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, 2012 NBA Finals Game 5: Miami Blowing Out OKC, 1 Quarter To Title

It was not a good start to the second half for the Miami Heat as the Oklahoma City Thunder cut a double-digit lead to just two possessions early on, but the quarter finished in amazing fashion. The Heat pushed their lead to as much as 25 points and finished the quarter up 95-71. Another huge offensive quarter on both the inside and from behind the arc simply blew the Thunder off the floor.

Miami is shooting 57 percent from the behind the arc, and it was once again Mike Miller, Shane Battier, and Mario Chalmers getting in on the act. Miller is five of six from long range and has 17 points. But even with all the hot shooting, Chris Bosh leads all Miami scorers with 22 points. LeBron James continues to facilitate the offense, hitting all these shooters for their wide-open threes. James already has a double-double with 19 points and 11 boards. He's now just 12 minutes from his first title.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, NBA Finals 2012 Game 5: Miami Continues Hot Shooting, Leads By 10 At Half

The Miami Heat lead the Oklahoma City Thunder 59-49 after one half of Game 5 of the NBA Finals. The Heat continued their hot-shooting from behind the arc in the second quarter, extending their lead. Miami lead by as much as 17 points in the second quarter as they poured in on from inside and outside. Mike Miller hit two more three-pointers and finished the half four for four from long range, contributing 12 points off the bench. Miami is shooting better than 50 percent from behind the arc and from the field.

LeBron James led the Heat with 15 points. The MVP did most of his work in the paint, opting to take it right to rim as opposed to settling for jump shots. That's been his approach throughout the Finals and it continues to work in Game 5 as the Heat go for their fourth straight and title-clinching win. James also added five assists and five boards in the first half. Chris Bosh is also four of six from the floor and added 10 points on the interior.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, 2012 NBA Finals Game 5: Miami Takes Early 5-Point Lead

With three quarters to go until a potential NBA Championship, the Miami Heat lead the Oklahoma City Thunder 31-26. Miami came out firing in the first quarter of Game 5, hitting four of eight from behind the arc. Mike Miller came off the bench and quickly drilled two three-pointers. The Heat hit nine straight shots as the Thunder scrambled to get stops on the defensive end.

LeBron James led all Miami scorers with seven points. The highlight of the quarter, however, came on a run-out where Mario Chalmers lobbed an alley-oop to Dwyane Wade. The play really led to the first Miami spurt as they built a two-possession lead, which they held for much of the first quarter. Video of the incredible alley-oop finger-roll below:

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Finals 2012: Heat's Rebounding Key To Series

The Miami Heat are just one win away from their second NBA Championship and their first since bringing LeBron James and Chris Bosh to Miami to play with Dwyane Wade. While the scoring is a huge reason that the Heat are now a win away, one basic fundamental of basketball could push the Heat over the top in this series and that's rebounding.

SB Nation NBA writer Steve Perrin simply takes a look at the box scores and sees that while the difference between both teams' rebounding is a mere eight rebounds in the first four games, every team that has had more rebounds has won the game.

He specifically brings up Heat forward Chris Bosh. After only grabbing five boards in Game one of the finals, Bosh has averaged nearly 12 rebounds in the last three games, all Heat victories. Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant on the other hand has seen his rebounding numbers drop from eight boards in Game 1 to averaging less than four per game in the last three games.

In a series between two such evenly matched teams, the difference may come down to effort. Rebounding is about hard work and concentration, and Durant and his Oklahoma City teammates simply need to do better. Keep an eye on the rebounding in Game 5, in particular Durant and Bosh. If the game follows the same pattern as the first four, the rebounds will tell the story.

Rebounds are one of those little stats that seem to get lost in the NBA, but if Bosh wins the rebounding battle Thursday against Durant, South Beach may be party central for Heat fans.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Finals 2012: Odds Favor Miami Heat

On Thursday night the Miami Heat will attempt to close out the 2012 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder at home at the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, Fla. The Heat now have a 3-1 lead in the series, and while the Thunder certainly have the talent on their roster to pull the unlikely come back, according to Neil Paine of Basketball-Reference.com in a guest spot for ESPN, the odds just aren't in their favor because of the NBA's 2-3-2 format.

Historically, teams facing a 3-1 hole on the road have forced a sixth game just 29 times in 125 chances (23 percent). The simple knowledge that they must play Game 5 away from home implies just a 5-6 percent chance that both teams' seasons survive another night.

As Paine notes, the Heat wouldn't only have to lose three games in a row to falter, but they'd also have to give up a game on their home court.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat, Fox Sport Florida Close To Huge TV Deal, According To Report

The Heat and Fox Sports Florida are reportedly close to finishing a blockbuster deal that would bring in $80-100 million per year to the team.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder Game 5: Game TIme, TV Schedule And More

The Miami Heat can close out the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night and finally pick up an NBA title.

2012 NBA Finals Game 4 TV Ratings A Hit Again

The 2012 NBA Finals between the Miami Heat and the Oklahoma City Thunder have been beating up the ratings so far in the series and Game 4 on Tuesday night was no exception.

According to ESPN public relations, Game scored a 12.4 overnight rating and is the second-highest rated game in ABC's history of broadcasting the NBA. Game 4 was also 12 percent increase over Game 4 of last year's Finals, which had stellar ratings by it's own right.

It's no shocker that the matchup between the Heat and Thunder is drawing massive ratings, as the teams combine for some of the biggest stars in the NBA in LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Dwyane Wade Eyewear Again Raises Eyebrows

NBA Playoffs 2012, Heat Vs. Thunder: Cramps Can't Stop Miami

The Miami Heat won again in Tuesday night. They beat the Oklahoma Thunder by a final score of 104-98, taking a 3-1 lead in the series. One more win gives them the NBA title, and takes away a popular topic of conversation in basketball circles, the one about whether or not LeBron James can lead his team to title.

James played a crucial role in his team's win, playing through intense cramping in the fourth quarter that sent him to the bench for stretches of time, including the final moments with Miami hanging onto a narrow lead. Twice in the fourth quarter, James put the Heat on top, including a three-point shot near the end of the game while cramping.

Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog, describes how Miami held on for the win:

Mario Chalmers made a huge layup after a Wade/Bosh pick-and-roll play broke down. Wade made a huge block on a Thabo Sefolosha 3-point attempt in the corner, playing excellent help-and-recover defense. And on Miami's ensuing possession, the Thunder forced a jump-ball situation with 17 seconds on the game clock but only five seconds to shoot. Shane Battier made a heads-up play and tipped the ball to Chalmers. Westbrook apparently didn't know about the shot clock, and immediately fouled the former Kansas guard. The 2008 second-round pick knocked down three free throws to ice the game and put Miami within 48 minutes of winning a championship.

Russell Westbrook had a big night for the Thunder, but did not get the contributions from his team to make it count. It was reminiscent of some earlier Heat games in these playoffs.

Game 5 is Thursday night in Miami.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, NBA Finals 2012 Game 4: Miami Takes Commanding 3-1 Series Lead

The Miami Heat are now one win away from winning the NBA Title after putting the Thunder on the brink of elimination with their third straight Finals win. The Heat closed out a thrilling 104-98 win on Tuesday night in Game 4. LeBron James was fantastic for the Heat, and Mario Chalmers played a huge role down the stretch to seal the win. James was plagued by cramps over the final six minutes, subbing in and out of the game. After taking a break to try and work out the cramps, the MVP came off the bench to hit a huge three that broke a 94-94 tie. Video of the three below:

Before the cramping set in, James was simply incredible, nearly notching a triple-double by the end of the third quarter. He finished with 26 rebounds, 12 assists, and nine rebounds. His work in the post got everyone else going, spreading the ball around to three-point shooters out of a double team in the post.

One of the those shooters, Mario Chalmers, may well have been the X-factor in the win. Chalmers finished with 25 points, including a huge layup off the glass to push the Heat lead to five. Chalmers ended up scoring Miami's final five points.

The Heat will now look to close out the Thunder on Thursday night at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

LeBron James Injury: Heat Forward Cramps Up In Game 4 Of Finals

LeBron James was forced the leave the floor during a crucial fourth quarter stretch of Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Tuesday night. James appeared to cramp up and was badly dragging his leg, forcing Erik Spoelstra to call a timeout and take the MVP out of the game. James was on the sideline, drinking fluids and having ice rubbed on his quad. He sat out for a few plays, trying to stretch out the cramps and get back in the game with under five minutes to play. He returned to the floor and hit an absolute dagger three-pointer with the game tied at 94.

Video of the injury below:

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, 2012 NBA Finals Game 4: Miami Takes 79-74 Lead Into 4th Quarter

The Miami Heat quickly took their first lead of the game in the third quarter of Game 5 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Heat lead by as many as seven points, and finished the quarter up 79-74. LeBron James turned it on in the third quarter, notching a double-double with 20 points and 12 assists. He's just one rebound shy of a triple-double, with 12 more minutes to go before the Heat put the Thunder on the brink of elimination.

Dwyane Wade led the charge at the start of the second half and he's matched James with 20 points of his own. The two hooked up on this incredible connection off a long rebound:

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, 2012 NBA Finals Game 4: Miami Storms Back In 2nd Quarter To Cut Lead To 3

After trailing by as many as 17 points, the Miami Heat stormed back to close the Oklahoma City lead to just three at halftime of Game 4 of the NBA Finals. The Heat went on a 13-0 run at the start of the second quarter, sparked by back-to-back threes from Norris Cole. The rookie drained a three at the end of the first and then continued the comeback run to start the second. From there, it was a back-and-forth quarter but Miami could never get over the hump and take the lead. But after OKC's offensive explosion in the first quarter, Miami is happy to go into the locker room down 49-46.

Dwyane Wade and LeBron James lead the Heat with 10 points each. James has set up on the block, backing defenders down and drawing double teams. He's consistently dished off at the right time as the double team has rotated over, picking up eight assists in the first half, many of which keyed the comeback run. Six of the eight assists went for three-pointers.

Wade appeared to injure his back driving to the hoop in the middle of the second quarter during Game 4. He penetrated into the lane to attack the rim but was met in the air by Oklahoma City's Serge Ibaka. The All-Star guard fell to the floor grimacing, but appeared to be fine after a timeout.

Russell Westbrook continued to lead the Thunder in the second quarter, finishing with a game-high 18 points. Westbrook is hitting everything, both in transition and from mid-range. Kevin Durant has picked his spots to back up Westbrook with 12 points. But OKC has to be discouraged with only a three-point lead after shooting nearly 63 percent in the first quarter and squandering that double-digit lead.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, 2012 NBA Finals Game 4: OKC Has Best Quarter Of Series, Leads 33-19

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been plagued by slow starts during the 2012 NBA Finals, but that all changed in Game 4 on Tuesday night. With their season seemingly on the line, OKC's offense came out on fire to promptly take a double-digit lead over Miami. Russell Westbrook, who's been criticized for his shooting during the series, was hitting all his shots, particularly from mid-range. He finished the first quarter five of eight from the floor for a game-high ten points.

The Thunder led by as much as 17 points, but a late three by Norris Cole cut it to 14 as the first 12 minutes expired. It's still their first first quarter lead of the series, built on 62.5 percent shooting from the field. In addition to Westbrook, Kevin Durant added eight points and Nick Collison was extremely active, chipping in six points.

For Miami, LeBron James is just two of seven from the floor for four points. As a team, Miami shot just 35 percent from the floor. It's unlikely OKC will stay this hot from the the field, but Miami will have to start attacking the rim to get back into it.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: LeBron James Calls Serge Ibaka's Remarks 'Stupid'

On Monday, Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka told reporters that LeBron James "is not a good defender."

The three-time MVP responded to the comments on Tuesday.

"I don't really care what he says, he's (pause) stupid," James said. "Everyone says something to me every series then [the media] tries to get a quote."

LeBron finished in the top-five for voting for the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year award.

"For me as a defender, I just try to make plays and try to keep my body in front of a great player," he said. "First of all, I'm not playing 48 minutes and Kevin's not playing 48 minutes. I'm not guarding him for 48 minutes. When I'm on him, I'm just trying to make it tough for him to make shots, which he's going to make."

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals: Heat Go "Old Man" On Thunder Youth

In the latest episode of Bomani & Jones, host Bomani Jones discusses the advantage Miami has over the Oklahoma City Thunder with experience.

With several young players that have never seen a stage like the NBA Finals, Bomani certainly has a point about the Thunder. Like he says he the video, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant, James Harden and Serge Ibaka are all 23 or younger while each of the big three for the Heat are in their ninth season.

While Durant has scored plenty during the first three games of the series, his foul trouble in each game can be certainly be attributed to inexperience and the play of MVP Lebron James. Couple that with the play of Bosh and Wade as described by Jones in the video and it's not entirely surprising that the "old man" Heat have jumped out to a 2-1 lead in the series.

Now if only I knew more about Spades.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: Ibaka Not Impressed By Lebron's Defense

Miami Heat forward Lebron James has drawn much praise for his defense so far in the NBA Finals as the first-team all-defensive team player has been matched up against Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant during each of the two wins for the Heat in the series. However, Thunder forward Serge Ibaka is not among those impressed with the three-time MVP's defense.

Via the Palm Beach Post:

"LeBron is not a good defender," Ibaka said about the player who received the most votes for the league’s all-defensive team, which is selected by the coaches.

"He can play defense for two to three minutes but not 48 minutes."

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder Game 4: Game TIme, TV Schedule And More

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder Game 3: Ben Golliver Breaks Down Miami's Win

With Game 3 of the NBA Finals going to the Heat, 91-85, whats left to do now before Game 4 on Tuesday night is to go over what happened Saturday night between both teams. Ben Golliver of SB Nation posted a video doing a brief recap of Sunday's game and looking at some of the decisions made by the Oklahoma City Thunder that raised an eyebrow.

His specific point was the fact that the Thunder opted to keep Russell Westbrook on the the bench, replacing him with Derek Fisher. Considering that he went three-for-eight from the field, two-for-three from three point range, had no assists and was -9 to Westbrook's +3, it is a little curious that Fisher got the time that he did. James Harden struggles in the game, shooting two-for-10 and Kevin Durant's struggles, four points in the fourth quarter, were huge contributing factors in Oklahoma City's loss.

On the Miami side, he talked about how guard LeBron James has just taken over in a large way since the Heat fell behind the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Over the last month of games, James has averaged about 33 points and 11 rebounds per game and is putting the Heat on his shoulders in the Finals.

Game 4 is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday night. The game will again be broadcast on ABC.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: Television Ratings Soaring

Whatever side fans may fall on in the 2012 NBA Finals, they are indeed turning out to watch the games, turning out in droves. National interest in the Miami Heat versus the Oklahoma City Thunder is setting new ratings highs. In fact, Game 3, a 91-85 Miami win that gave them a 2-1 series lead, scored a Neilsen rating of 10.4 overnight.

ESPN says that this is the highest rated NBA series since 2004. Viewership spiked in the second half of Sunday night's game, probably the result of viewers jumping there following the end of the 2012 U.S. Open. Ratings in Oklahoma City have been particularly high for the broadcasts.

Game 4 is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday night. The game will again be broadcast on ABC.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

LeBron James Give Away Headband To Girl

Yeah, that's not gross at all...

(via Jose3030)

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: This Is Not The Same Miami Team From Last Year's NBA Finals

The Miami Heat are much different team this year than in the past. They are, literally, a year older, but age has nothing on the team's growth and maturity. The Heat have grown, as a team and as individuals, from the group that lost last year's NBA finals to the Dallas Mavericks.

Andrew Sharp at SB Nation notes the difference in a Monday column following the Heat's Game 3 win.

Watching Game 3 I couldn't help but think back to last year, when the Heat were the young team that had an up-and-down regular season and then had everything come together in the playoffs, when they bumrushed the entire Eastern Conference and looked like they'd turned a corner. Then they got to the Finals and found a Mavericks team that wasn't necessarily better, but they'd been there before, knew what it felt like to lose, and weren't taking anything for granted. By the end of that series, Dallas made the Heat look clueless.

When it was finally over, Chris Bosh walked off the court in tears, and LeBron didn't leave his house for weeks. The "pain" that Bosh talked about Sunday was definitely real.

Who knows whether that pain actually changed the Heat as much as Bosh thinks, but for what it's worth, Game 3 was exactly the sort of game they would've lost to the Mavericks. Instead they fought back, took the openings OKC gave them, and closed at the end.

There is plenty of basketball left in the series. In fact, Miami had a 2-1 lead after three games last year, so much could still happen and the Thunder are not a team to give opponents much in the way of a break.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Heat Vs. Thunder: Big Night From The Big Three Powers Miami

The Big Three took control for the Miami Heat on Sunday night. Together, Chris Bosh, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade led the Heat to a 91-85 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder to take a 2-1 lead in the 2012 NBA Finals.

Peninsula Is Mightier, SB Nation's Heat blog, explains why the Big Three were so important in Sunday night's win:

LeBron James again played at an MVP-level with 29 points and 14 rebounds and was once again very aggressive down the stretch. Dwyane Wade also had a strong game with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and had several key baskets at the rim instead of settling for too many jumpers. Chris Bosh was not efficient from the field but had several big moments, grabbing 4 offensive rebounds and 11 overall and had a pair of key defensive stops against Kevin Durant in the second half.

Miami has been both prematurely written off and praised throughout the playoffs this year. They still find ways to win, whether through an overall team effort or on the shoulders of certain super stars.

Game 4 is Tuesday night at 9 p.m Eastern. It's the second of three games in Miami, and the Heat need just two more wins for a title.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder Game 3 Final: Miami Wins Pivotal Game 3, 91-85

The Miami heat are now just two victories away from their second NBA Championship after they beat the Oklahoma City Thunder at home by a final score of 91-85.

LeBron James once again led the way for Miami as he had a final stat line of 29 points, 14 rebounds and three assists. Dwyane Wade also chipped in 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in Game 3. Chris Bosh struggled a bit as he scored just 10 points in the game on 3-12 shooting from the field, but his presence was felt on the defensive end and on the glass as he grabbed 11 rebounds.

Game 4 against Oklahoma City will take place on Tuesday night from Miami.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder Game 3 Update: Miami Holding On To A Slim Lead At Halftime

The Miami heat are locked into an intense battle with the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the 2012 NBA Finals and at the half, the Heat lead the Thunder 47-46.

LeBron James has had a monster first half scoring 16 points on 7-13 shooting from the field. He also has eight rebounds and two assists thus far. Dwyane Wade has been effective as well scoring 11 points, grabbing four rebounds and dishing out five assists through the first 24 minutes of regulation.

For Oklahoma City, young guns, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook have 13 points each with Kendrick Perkins contributing eight points so far.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Finals 2012: Miami Heat Podcast Previews Game 3

The 2012 NBA Finals haven't disappointed through two games, and with the large number of story lines that have emerged Surya Fernandez and Diego Quezada over at Peninsula is MIghtier have put together a nice podcast that puts a wrap on Games 1 and 2 while looking ahead to Game 3.

Other topics include the role Shane Battier's success has played in the series so far, the coaching battle between Heat head coach Eric Spoelstra and Scott Brooks of the Thunder and how the Heat have made Kendrick Perkins a non-factor in the series so far.

You can check out the podcast here.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder Game 3: Game TIme, TV Schedule And More

With the 2012 NBA Finals between Oklahoma City and Miami tied at one game apiece, the Heat welcome the Thunder to South Beach on Sunday night for Game 3.

Chris Bosh Has Lost Key Ability

Thunder Vs. Heat, NBA Finals 2012: Through Two Games, Oklahoma City And Miami Have Delivered The Goods

After blowing a double-digit lead in Game 1 of the 2012 NBA Finals, the Miami Heat righted the ship in Game 2, jumping out to an early 18-2 lead and this time fought off another furious Oklahoma City rally to even the championship series as one game apiece as the two teams head to South Beach for Game 3.

So far fans have been treated to two ultra-competitive games, with stars LeBron James and Kevin Durant delivering performances worthy of their reputations, and there is no reason to think the next five games won't be just as good. Sure, fans shouldn't get ahead of themselves, but as Andrew Sharp of SB Nation notes, it sure looks like folks are in for a classic NBA Finals:

The point is this: What we saw in the second half of Game 2 was the best teams in the league at their absolute best, and the last few minutes were every bit as insane and beautiful as you'd expect given the ingredients. Now the series is tied going to Miami, and we have absolutely no idea what happens from here. This is the NBA Finals we dream about, and there's a good chance it all gets better over the next week.

Game 3 is scheduled for a 9:07 p.m. EST tip-off on Sunday night. Fans can only hope the superb play continues.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, NBA Finals 2012 Game 2: Chris Bosh Returns To Lineup, Gives Miami Huge Boost

Chris Bosh started his first game since May 13 in Miami's 100-96 win over Oklahoma City in game two of the 2012 NBA Finals on Thursday night. Since returning from the abdominal injury he suffered against the Pacers, Bosh's contributions off the bench had been relatively inconsistent, but that changed once he was on the court from the opening whistle.

Bosh finished game two with 16 points on 13 shots, and he also pulled down a game-high 15 rebounds in 40 minutes of work. He had 10 points and 10 rebounds in the first half.

It seems like Bosh's success goes hand-in-hand with the Heat's success, writes Christopher Wescott of the Miami Herald:

The Bosh experiment seemed to work for Miami. Putting him back in the starting line-up gave the Heat a boost early on route to victory. Now it's just a matter of consistency and stamina. It's pretty clear that when Bosh contributes, the Heat rolls.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, NBA Finals 2012 Game 2: LeBron James, Kevin Durant Score 32 Points

After jumping out to an 18-2 lead to open game two of the 2012 NBA Finals, the Miami Heat made it a wire-to-wire victory with their 100-96 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder cut the Heat's lead to as little as two with under a minute to play, but that's as far as they got. Miami evened up the series at one, shifting the balance of the series with the teams heading to Florida for three straight games.

Over at Peninsula Is Mightier, Diego Quezada thinks the Heat have some reasons for optimism as they head home:

A team without home-court advantage always seeks to get a split on the road, and Miami achieved that here. The Thunder hadn't lost a home playoff game until Thursday night, so the Heat should feel cautiously optimistic heading into Game 3.

James finished with 32 points on 10-of-22 shooting from the field and 12-of-12 shooting from the foul line, eight rebounds and five assists. He, not Shane Battier, was the primary defender on Durant. The three-time scoring champ played well in the fourth quarter, but the two best players on the planet each finished with 32. Additionally, Erik Spoelstra gave James a few minutes of rest in each half, playing him for 42 minutes.

Despite his 32 points, J.A. Sherman of Welcome To Loud City wasn't overly impressed with Kevin Durant's performance:

Kevin Durant shot 4-10 from 3-point range. When morning arrives and you peruse the box score you might be inclined to think that despite the big miss at the end, Durant played pretty well. From my perspective, I thought he played pretty poor offensive ball throughout, and as we've seen over the course of the last 2 seasons, the easiest tell-tale sign is to look at his number of 3-point attempts. Any time Durant attempts a double-digit number of 3-point shots, it is a clear indication that he is not playing to his strengths.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, NBA Finals 2012 Game 2: Miami Holds On To Even Series

The Miami Heat evened the 2012 NBA Finals on Thursday night with a thrilling 100-96 Game 2 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Heat lead wire-to-wire, although Oklahoma City had a chance to tie it with ten seconds remaining but Kevin Durant missed a floater on the baseline. Some argued that LeBron James impeded Durant and fouled him. Video of the play below:

With Miami up just three, James came through in the clutch with a pretty bank shot off the window to silence the crowd. After a mad scramble and nearly blowing a seven-point lead in the final minutes, James came through with another two clutch free-throws after the Durant miss to push the lead to four with seven seconds to play. James was a perfect 12 for 12 from the line and finished with 32 points, his fifth straight game with 30 or more.

In addition to James, Dwyane Wade was back to his old self, contributing 24 points. He attacked the rim from the start and controlled the action on offense from the top of the key. It was a crucial bounce-back performance for Wade. The Heat again got a huge boost from role player Shane Battier, who scored 17 points. Battier was five for seven from the behind the arc, including a couple dagger threes that halted Oklahoma City runs.

With the series all tied up, the Finals now move to Miami for three straight. It will be incredibly difficult for Miami to win three straight against the Thunder, but with the win, they now have home-court advantage and at least the opportunity. Game 3 will be Sunday night at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, 2012 NBA Finals Game 1: Miami Maintains Double-Digit Lead After 3 Quarters

The Miami Heat maintained their double-digit lead through the third quarter, taking a 78-67 advantage into the final 12 minutes of Game 2. Shane Battier continues his clutch play, hitting a couple more three-pointers and sinking a nice runner in the lane to keep Miami ahead and respond to several OKC runs. Battier has 14 points and is four of six from behind the arc, playing his best basketball of the season over the past two games.

Along with Battier, the Heat went to LeBron James consistently in the third and the MVP got to the free-throw line. He's a perfect eight for eight from the charity stripe and has a game-high 26 points. Dwyane Wade has added 17 points. Miami will need to hold off Kevin Durant, who picked up his fourth foul in the third, to hang on and even the series.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, 2012 NBA Finals Game 2: Miami Leads By 12 At Half

The Miami Heat took a 55-43 lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder into the locker room at halftime of Game 2. After jumping out to an 18-2 lead to start the game, the Heat enjoyed a double-digit lead for the entire first half. Dwyane Wade led the charge from the tip and finished the half with 13 points. Miami continues to attack the rim, even with Serge Ibaka challenging and altering shots in the paint. LeBron James led all Miami scorers with 14 points but Chris Bosh had an incredible active half in the the paint, grabbing 10 boards and scoring 10 points.

Miami maintained the lead, however, on the defensive end. They held OKC to just 34 percent from the floor and eliminated the transition offense. Sixth Man of the Year James Harden came off the bench and was the only Thunder player to really get into rhythm on the offensive end. Harden finished the half with a game-high 17 points in 17 minutes. Saddled with two early fouls, Kevin Durant is just three of nine from the field for only six points.

The Heat enjoyed a double-digit lead for much of the first half in Game 1, but the Thunder came out in the third quarter and blitzed Miami to erase a 7-point deficit and take a lead into the final 12 minutes. Miami will have to keep up the defensive effort to even the series.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, 2012 NBA Finals Game 2: Miami Starts Fast Again, Takes Double-Digit Lead After 1st Quarter

As they did in the first game of the NBA Finals, the Miami Heat quickly jumped all over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first quarter of Game 2. Miami held OKC to just two points for the first seven minutes of the game, building an 18-2 lead. Dwyane Wade set the tone early, clearly looking to make a statement after his subpar Game 1. He attacked the rim, penetrating and getting to the bucket. Erik Spoelstra made a concerted effort to get him the ball at the top of the key, letting him create. Wade took advantage with a couple big dunks in to start his night. He finished the quarter with seven points. LeBron James added eight points.

With the Thunder offense struggling, Sixth Man of the Year James Harden came off the bench and scored 10 points in just five minutes. But the Heat drew two early fouls on both Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook -- forcing head coach Scott Brooks to likely reduce their first half minutes.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals: Miami Heat Should Be More Aggressive

The Miami Heat couldn't maintain their brilliant start in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, and faltered down the stretch. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook scored multiple ways -- jump shots, attacking the basket and getting to the line -- while the Heat offense looked static. LeBron James was solid, but not good enough.

Of course, he wasn't the Heat's biggest problem. Miami Heat blog Peninsula is Mightier says that the other two members of the Big Three "thoroughly disappointed," and that they need to be much more aggressive in Game 2 on Thursday night.

Wade made his first two jumpers on the baseline, but attempted way too many jump shots. If someone wants to look at the silver lining for Wade, he did get into the lane much more frequently late in the fourth quarter. Bosh never attempted his signature "pump fake, hard drive" move to the basket in the game. He is a great shooter for a big man, but needs to include some drives to the basket to diversify his game.

A lot is going to be expected of Wade and Bosh in Game 2, and the Heat are going to struggle if they don't deliver.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For more on the Thunder, check out Welcome To Loud City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Thunder Vs. Heat Game 2: Game TIme, TV Schedule And More

The Miami Heat are set to take on the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of the NBA Finals and try to even the series.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: Game 1 Earns Highest Ever Ratings For Finals Opener

While Miami fans were disappointed with the end result of Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the matchup between the Miami Heat and the Oklahoma City Thunder generated a lot of buzz around the country. The television ratings for Game 1 earned the highest ever rating for an NBA Finals opening game, according to a press release by ESPNMediaZone.com.

The NBA Finals Game 1 on ABC...generated a record 11.8 overnight rating, the highest ever for a Game 1 on the network, according to Nielsen. The game peaked with a 14.1 rating from 11:30 to 11:45 p.m. ET.

The ratings are up 10 percent from last season's NBA Finals Game 1 between the Heat and the Dallas Mavericks. That game drew a 10.7 rating. The previous record for Game 1 ratings was the 2004 Game 1 between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Detroit Pistons, which drew an 11.6.

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2012 NBA Finals, Thunder Vs. Heat: Is Dwyane Wade Too Old?

Dwyane Wade finished Tuesday night's 105-94 loss to the Oklahoma Thunder with 19 points and four rebounds. The Miami Heat guard struggled from the field and was far from the second half of a duo capable of carrying the team through rough stretches. Setting aside questions about the Thunder's impact on his game, Greg Cote from the Miami Herald asks if maybe age is the problem for Wade.

There was a different narrative emerging from the Heat's 105-94 loss in Game 1 here, though - certainly from a Miami perspective, at least.

Dwyane Wade looked old.

His game did, anyway. His performance did. And his ability to be his old self, meaning his younger self.

With LeBron James performing as expected, the key for this series and the championship is Wade, says Cote. Specifically, James and Wade outdueling the Thunder's twin titans of Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.

It is only the first game of the series.

It also might disappear in a massive comeback effort by Wade in Game 2 back here Thursday. We have seen it before. Wade down and doubted, using it as fuel, and proving everyone wrong.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Playoffs 2012, Thunder Vs. Heat: Too Soon To Panic

The first game of the 2012 NBA Finals was decided late. The Oklahoma City Thunder started their comeback right as the buzzer sounded at the half and continued it right up through the final horn blew on the series opener. In the end, the Thunder beat the Miami Heat by a final score of 105-94, giving them a 1-0 series lead.

Peninsula Is Mightier explains the Heat's problems in the second half of Tuesday night's game:

Dwyane Wade had another one of those games where his explosiveness was missing and he mostly settled for jump shots, going just 5-19 from the field, but he did have a team-leading 8 assists. In order to beat the Thunder on the road, the Heat needed much more from Chris Bosh, who had just 10 points and 5 rebounds in 34 minutes, and he was not a factor defensively like he was against the Boston Celtics upon his return from injury. The Heat looked sluggish on both ends in the second half and were slow to set up their offense as the Thunder started picking up the pace and kept attacking the basket while making jumper after jumper.

The real culprit may have been something outside the players' control, the effects of playing a long series with the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Part of the overall team slump might have been fatigue, with coach Erik Spoelstra making a curious decision to reduce his rotation to just 7 players after coming off a grueling 7-game series against the Boston Celtics. This may have been due to to the fact that James Jones was held out of the game because of migraine symptoms. Joel Anthony was only used for two minutes and Ronny Turiaf did not play at all.

There is still plenty of basketball left to be played, and it's far too soon for any finger pointing said SB Nation's Heat blog.

Realistically speaking, tt was going to be borderline impossible to win both games in Oklahoma City. If the Heat can build on the game plan from the first half and be able to stick to it while getting better games from Wade and Bosh (and an aggressive LeBron in crunch time) then they have a solid chance of earning the split with a chance to turn the series around back home.

Game 2 of the series happens Thursday night.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Thunder Vs. Heat, NBA Finals 2012 Game 1: Kevin Durant Closes Oklahoma City Win

The Oklahoma City Thunder took Game 1 of the NBA Finals with a 105-94 win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday night. The Heat went cold on offense in the second half, putting just 19 points on the board in the third quarter and then following that up with a 21-point fourth quarter.

Oklahoma City did not lead until 16 seconds remaining in the third quarter, but they never looked back in the fourth thanks to an incredible final 12 minutes from Kevin Durant. The Thunder leader scored 17 points in the last frame to push OKC ahead with a comfortable cushion over the final two minutes. While Russell Westbrook did the work to bring them even in the third, it was Durant who came on and closed. Durant finished with 36 points while Westbrook added 27.

LeBron James led Miami with 30 points, a new career-high in the Finals. He had a solid if not spectacular game, hitting 11 of 24 from the field. Shane Battier and Mario Chalmers provided a spark in the first half, but Miami could not get much offense from anyone other than James during the second half. Dwyane Wade came on late but finished with just 19 points.

The Heat will now try to even the series and take Game 2 on Thursday night.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, 2012 NBA Finals Game 1: Oklahoma City Takes 1st Lead At End Of 3rd Quarter

After three quarters in Oklahoma City, the Miami Heat trail the Thunder 74-73 in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Russell Westbrook took over for the Thunder in the third quarter, converting an and-1 at the rim to give his team their first lead of the game with just 16 seconds remaining.

Oklahoma City came right out of the gates in the second half with an increased energy, immediately cutting into the Heat's halftime lead. Yet they never took the lead until 16 seconds remaining as Miami held on throughout the quarter. OKC was in the bonus early but they have missed seven free throws on the night.

After a poor shooting first half, Westbrook asserted himself in the third quarter and got to the rim with ease. Dwyane Wade has called him the best athlete in the league and he was able to get penetration in the half court without much trouble, converting several easy finger rolls. He now has 21 points and is in triple-double territory.

For Miami, LeBron James has 23 points, two shy of his career high in the Finals. Dwyane Wade is struggling again, and is just four of 14 from the floor.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, NBA Finals 2012 Game 1: Led By LeBron James, Miami Leads By 7 After 1st Half

The Miami Heat led by as many as 13 points in the first half of Game 1 of the NBA Finals and took a 54-47 advantage into the locker room. Miami has shot the lights out from behind the arc, with an unexpected contribution from Shane Battier. The veteran wing set his 2012 Playoffs high in the first half alone, hitting three three-pointers and finishing with 13 points. As a team, Miami was six of 10 from behind the arc and shot better than 50 percent from the floor.

After a slow start shooting, LeBron James finished the half leading all scorers with 14 points. James is five of 12 from the floor and has also already dished five assists, as the Heat have moved the ball and rotated well on offense. James also had four steals in the first half, including a swipe of Kevin Durant that lead to an emphatic dunk. In addition to Battier, Mario Chalmers was hitting his shots earlier and contributed 10 points.

Oklahoma City cut the lead to seven largely by getting out in transition, which Miami struggled stopping. The Thunder shot better than 50 percent from the floor, but committed eight turnovers and were sloppy with the ball. Kevin Durant scored the first eight points for OKC, and finished with 13. Russell Westbrook is just three of 10 from the floor.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visitSB Nation's NBA hub.

Heat Vs. Thunder, 2012 NBA Finals Game 1: Miami Starts Hot, Leads 29-22 After 1st Quarter

The Miami Heat came ready to play in Game 1 of the 2012 Finals, shooting the lights out over the first 12 minutes to lead build a double-digit lead in the first quarter. The Thunder finished on a bit of a run to close the half down 29-22. The Heat were five of six from behind the arc, with Shane Battier and Mario Chalmers doing the damage. Battier opened the game a perfect three-for-three for a quick nine points, before being removed for Mike Miller midway through the quarter. Chalmer added the other two three-pointers

As a team, the Heat are shooting 52.4 percent from the floor. LeBron James was the one player who started colder, going one for five from the floor and adding only four points. But his teammates were there to pick him up and maintain the comfortable lead throughout the first quarter.

Oklahoma City came out tight on the offensive end, committing several silly turnovers. Kevin Durant was the one OKC player who got into rhythm on the offensive end, scoring their first eight points of the slow start. Durant finished with 11.

Stick with this StoryStream for all your news throughout the 2012 NBA Finals. For more on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, visit Welcome To Loud City and SB Nation Kansas City. For all your Finals analysis, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: It's LeBron Vs. Durant At Last

The highly-anticipated face off between three-time league MVP LeBron James and three-time scoring champion Kevin Durant has finally arrived and it begins tonight with Game 1 at the Chesapeake Energy Arena at 9 p.m. EST. There are plenty of storylines -- as alluded to here -- but in a number of ways, LeBron vs. Durant stands out from among the rest. SB Nation's Andrew Sharp touched on this subject in a post earlier today:

There will be plenty of people who tell you this series isn't about LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Don't listen to them. It'll look a lot different than summer basketball, and KD and LeBron won't be one-on-one very often, and there are plenty of other factors that'll determine every game. But still. In 25 years we won't be arguing about where Russell Westbrook and Dwyane Wade rank in the 10 greatest players of all time.

The countdown 'till tip-off continues...

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Fans Too Loud For The Heat At Marlins Park?

2012 NBA Finals, Heat Vs. Thunder: Keys To The Series

The NBA Finals begin tonight at 6 p.m. with the Miami Heat, coming off its Game 7 win over the Boston Celtics on Saturday night, facing the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 in the Sooner State. SB Nation NBA writer Mike Prada compiled a list of keys to the series. Here they are:

1. Will LeBron James get fatigued?

2. Can the Thunder continue to avoid their regular-season turnover problems?

3. How will Kevin Durant be used?

4. How does Dwyane Wade get his points? Who does he defend?

5. Will Miami switch everything defensively?

6. Will Chris Bosh start? How will he change things? Will he change things?

7. Which small lineup wins out?

AND ONE. Which teams executes best down the stretch?

As for the one lingering question: Who ends up getting a ring at the end of the day, LeBron or Kevin Durant?

The Thunder have home-court advantage, which is huge, but I think the Heat are a really tough matchup for them with their size on the perimeter. Assuming James holds up physically, which is no guarantee, I see the Heat winning one of the first two games, twice at home and then finishing this thing off in Oklahoma City. Heat in 6.

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2012 NBA Finals, Thunder Vs. Heat Game 1: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

2012 NBA Finals: Heat Vs. Thunder Playoff Schedule

The schedule has been released for the 2012 NBA Finals. Find out when you can tune in to see the Miami Heat take on the Oklahoma City Thunder.