Warriors Capture Second NBA Title in 3 Years

The Golden State Warriors beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 129-120 on Monday night at Oracle Arena in Game 5 of the Finals to win their second NBA championship in three seasons, wrapping up a 16-1 postseason run after finishing the regular season 67-15.

“It’s just a great group of guys, great community, great arena, great fans,” Durant said. “I’m just so happy to be a part of it. I can’t wait to celebrate with my teammates in the locker room.”

Kevin Durant, who was named Finals MVP, had 39 points, seven rebounds and five assists, becoming the first player with five straight 30-point games in NBA Finals since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000. He also became the third player to win Finals MVP in first year with team, joining Magic Johnson (1980 Lakers) and Moses Malone (1983 76ers). Stephen Curry added 34 points, 10 assists and six rebounds. Iguodala, the 2015 Finals MVP, came up with his 2017 postseason-best 20 points off the bench.

“If Kevin Durant was the consolation for (last year’s) loss, thanks for the loss,” Draymond Green said. “Now we’re champs again.”

James had 41 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists. Kyrie Irving finished with 26 points but shot 9 for 22. JR Smith added 25 points and seven 3-pointers. Kevin Love had a terrible night with only 6 points. The Cavs shot 62.5 percent from the floor in the first before combining for 16 fouls and 12 turnovers as a team the whole game. (Xinhua)